The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in partnership with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) and the World Bank Group (WBG), has launched the WCO Accelerated Trade Facilitation Programme to strengthen trade facilitation, enhance compliance, and advance customs modernisation across the country.
The programme focuses on reviewing previous objectives and confirming strategies for key reform initiatives, particularly in Post-Clearance Audit (PCA). It provides a platform to assess progress, identify practical steps for efficiency, and promote risk-based compliance management within Customs operations.
Deputy Comptroller-General Kikelomo Adeola, representing the Comptroller-General, emphasised that a robust PCA framework is crucial for informed risk management, voluntary compliance, and facilitating legitimate trade without compromising revenue. She stated, “The Nigeria Customs Service has chosen to make PCA work in our country.”
Trade Facilitation Expert, James Clark of WCO, commended NCS for significant progress, particularly in operationalising the PCA Manual and building a world-class PCA programme. Caroline Niagwan, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Tariff and Trade, highlighted the deliberate steps taken to strengthen PCA and risk management systems, aimed at boosting compliance, improving revenue collection, and safeguarding national economic interests.
