In a groundbreaking revelation at the 2023 Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Annual Conference, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu disclosed his administration’s strategic plan to tackle historical inadequacies in policymaking through comprehensive data deployment. Speaking through his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President outlined an ambitious vision that aims to transform Nigeria into a hub of export and import activities.
The President expressed deep concern over the historical lack of comprehensive data in Nigeria, labeling it a “technological affliction” that has impeded the nation’s growth trajectory and hindered informed governance decisions. Emphasizing the indispensability of data in the modern world, President Tinubu asserted that Nigeria can no longer afford to operate in the dark.
Vice President Shettima, representing President Tinubu at the conference held at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, highlighted the administration’s commitment to deploying data as a guiding light for sound government decisions. Describing President Tinubu as an “accounting virtuoso” with an unparalleled understanding of data’s significance, Shettima underscored the appointment of “tech-savvy Nigerians” into critical government positions to ensure strategic planning.
“We must not only commit to deploying data to make decisions within the government but also address the historical inadequacies of Nigerian policymaking, often impeded by a lack of comprehensive data. Our current governance landscape demands a transformative intervention, and the solution is what has brought us together today,” Shettima stated.
President Tinubu’s representative further stressed the urgency of adopting evidence-based processes and innovative strategies to align policies with the administration’s objectives, streamline decision-making, and resolve conflicts arising from misinformation and inconsistent policies within the government.
The President also highlighted the need for integrating complex data to interpret patterns of transactions and interactions in international trade. Additionally, he revealed plans to position Nigeria as a preferred destination for stakeholders involved in export and import activities overseen by Customs.
“Data provides the sharpest lens for us to connect the dots, even in establishing the security of our borders. We can easily determine the traffic of people and goods around a specific border and share indisputable information with other nations with just a punch on our computers,” President Tinubu declared.
Expressing satisfaction with the efforts of the Nigerian Customs Service in accumulating large amounts of data, President Tinubu applauded the commitment to shaping a public service system that upholds data integrity. He emphasized the necessity of investing in the training and capacity-building of Customs officers to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best minds globally.
As he declared the conference open, President Tinubu expressed hope that the discussions would set the trajectory for a new era in the Nigeria Customs Service. The CGC, BA Adeniyi, welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of technology in global Customs operations, emphasizing the Customs’ adaptation to global requisitions.
Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, Director General of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), commended the Nigerian Customs for upscaling global service delivery in maritime services. He expressed optimism that Nigeria, with its dedication to adopting technology in global trade, would soon become the reference point in Africa’s Customs revolution.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, pledged continuous adaptation to innovations and changing times in global trade. He promised seamless infrastructure and a conducive environment to enable the Nigeria Customs Service to match global standards.
The Ooni of Ife, HRH Oba Adeye Enitan Ogunwusi, praised the leadership of the Nigeria Customs for aiding the Tinubu administration in achieving its eight-point agenda. He advocated for a special economic status for Lagos State, recognizing its contributions to the nation’s economy.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Sen. Isa Jibrin and Hon. Leke Abejide, Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Customs, respectively; Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, Secretary, World Customs Service; Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Manasseh Daniel Jatau; Oba of Ilaro, Oba Olugbenle Olu; Alhaji Lai Mohammed, former Minister of Information; and former Comptrollers of the Nigeria Customs Service, among others. The conference marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest for growth, development, and technological innovation in global trade.
