The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has declared open a three-day retreat organised by the ICT/Modernisation Department of the NCS as part of his commitment to implementing the technological advancement policy of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The retreat, themed “Turn off Work; Turn on Retreat”, focuses on enhancing officers’ capabilities in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Software Development, and other tech-driven solutions central to the Service’s modernisation agenda.
CG Adeniyi who spoke at the opening ceremony held in Abuja, expressed satisfaction with the turnout and calibre of participants, describing it as the largest gathering of highly talented, motivated, and skilled ICT officers in the history of the Service.
Adeniyi reflected on how rapidly evolving digital technologies, ranging from machine learning to non-intrusive inspection and automated risk management, have transformed customs operations globally.
He urged officers to move beyond traditional roles and fully embrace their positions as problem-solvers.
Adeniyi, said the Customs is at a point where ICT is no longer just a support function but the engine room of modernisation efforts, shifting from legacy systems to homegrown digital platforms, noting that he expect the unit to continue developing innovative solutions to the complex challenges thr service is facing on a daily basis.
Acknowledging uncertainties ahead, particularly following the expiration of key IT service agreements, Adeniyi expressed confidence in the department’s delivery capacity.
He also highlighted the growing recognition of Nigeria Customs officers within the international customs community, especially at the World Customs Organization (WCO), citing their leadership in data harmonization, geospatial intelligence, and digital trade compliance.
He further challenged the Service to reduce physical examinations at ports by at least 50% before the end of Q3 2025, using digital profiling, tools including AI, cloud-based systems, and non-intrusive inspection technologies.
Following the ceremony, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola who also convened the retreat, spoke with journalists, echoing the CGC’s optimism.
She said the task ahead may seem daunting, but when great minds unite with a shared purpose, no challenge is insurmountable.
Ademola, reaffirmed the department’s readiness and determination to break new ground, strengthen systems, and uphold the CGC’s core values of innovation, integrity, and institutional strength.
