Buhari  commissions N19.6bn  Nigeria Customs Corporate Headquarters

…Says New Customs Act will enhance its efficiency and effectiveness

President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday said that the new Customs Act which he recently signed into law will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customs administration, stressing that it is a testament to his administration’s commitment to fostering a business –friendly environment, attracting investments and driving economic growth.

The President declared this while commissioning the new Customs headquarters building named CUSTOMS HOUSE in Maitama Abuja.

President Buhari said he had always recognized the critical role of Customs as an instrument of economic prosperity and overall development of the nation.

“We are all aware of the challenges faced by our Customs Service, particularly the issue of fragile borders that provide opportunities for illicit activities. The recent increase in transnational crimes, smuggling, and security threats necessitates the need for a robust and agile customs administration. I am fully cognizant of these challenges and the urgent need to address them.

“I am pleased to highlight that in line with our commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our customs administration, I recently signed the Customs Bill into law. The new Act, which is a product of extensive consultations and deliberations, represents a significant step towards modernizing our customs operations, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting trade facilitation. It is a testament to our commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment, attracting investments, and driving economic growth,” the President said.

President Buhari commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) for delivering the mandate issued to him in 2015.

“Over the years, he has earned my trust and support through his selfless service, and relentless pursuit of excellence without compromising his personal integrity. It is my hope that his leadership style has inspired a new crop of Customs leaders and Managers, driven by a strong desire to serve their fatherland while upholding the virtues of transparency and honesty,” the President said.

In her remarks, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed who doubles as the Chair of the Board of the organisation, the edifice stands as a symbol of the unwavering commitment to enhance the operations of the Nigeria Customs Service and its readiness to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. She added that the Board had ensured that the welfare of the service was taken seriously.

The Comptroller General announced that the building was completed at the cost of N19.6 billion. He also thanked the President for his recent signing of the Nigeria Customs Bill into law.

According to Col. Ali, “the landmark legislation represents a significant achievement for the Nigeria Customs Service and the entire nation. It provides us with a comprehensive legal framework that aligns with international best practices, strengthens our regulatory capabilities, and fosters trade facilitation.”

He also commended President Buhari for his support towards the Customs Modernisation Project which aims to modernize all aspects of Nigeria Customs Service operations through the innovative use of technology.

The Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, Chairman, Organising Committee for  Commissioning of the edifice, said the building had a 12-floor tower with five floors on both wings of the tower and “bridges” linking the two wings.

The chairman said construction of the building commenced in 2007 following the need to build a befitting edifice for the service.

He further said that the need for more space in view of the capacity of the service also informed the construction of the building,

Adeniyi said the building, having undergone redesigning and remodelling, was set for commissioning.

 “The new headquarters of the service is a technologically friendly building, with all the facilities to monitor the different borders and commands across the country from a centralised system.

“The Comptroller-General of Customs made it a priority that the building will be delivered during his tenure and that is what we are witnessing today.”

The chairman said the building, sitting on approximately 25,000 square metres, was designed and constructed by indigenous firms.

He said the height of the building above the ground was approximately 40 metres and one of the tallest buildings within the Business District of Maitama, Abuja.

Adeniyi said the building would be serviced with modern and up-to-date mechanical and electrical services installations.

The deputy comptroller-general of customs said the service was proud to state that “such an architectural masterpiece  is cost efficient.”

On the challenges encountered during the construction of the building, Adeniyi said there were challenges ranging from variations and adjustment in the model of the building.

The project was conceived in 2002 to provide a comfortable and conducive working environment for staff and authorised visitors to the building.