Arewa Economic Forum Chairman Praises Nigeria Customs’ Commitment To Northern Trade, Border Security

ABUJA – Ibrahim Shehu Dandakata, the Chairman of the Arewa Economic Forum (AEF), has lauded the unwavering support of the Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for the forum.   

Dandakata commended Adeniyi’s notable dedication to enhancing border security and trade facilitation in Northern Nigeria.

In a statement released by Customs spokesman CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, following a meeting between the AEF delegation and the Acting CGC at Customs Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, it was emphasized that Adeniyi’s commitment to implementing policies that improve the region is wholehearted.

The AEF Chairman praised the late former Comptroller-General of Customs, Dikko Inde, for bringing significant benefits to the region and expressed optimism that Adeniyi’s administration would surpass the achievements of previous CGCs.

He highlighted their discussions on fiscal policies and creating a conducive environment for businesses, particularly in the agricultural sector, to thrive in Northern Nigeria.

Dandakata appreciated Adeniyi for his proactive approach to addressing regional challenges and stated that AEF looks forward to witnessing enhanced cross-border trade in Ilela, which holds substantial potential for boosting the region’s economy.

He also appealed to Adeniyi to address the conditions of Inland Dry Ports in the North, which are currently non-functional, and invited him to participate in an Economic Summit planned for later in the year to promote investment in the North.

In response, Acting Comptroller-General Adeniyi expressed his administration’s commitment to boosting trade in Northern Nigeria, acknowledging its vital role in Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

He emphasized the importance of peace in the region for successful trade talks.

Adeniyi assured the AEF delegation that Customs would look into the issues surrounding Inland Ports and collaborate with the Federal Government to expedite necessary actions, emphasizing Customs’ willingness to support the situation.

Regarding the forthcoming Economic Summit organized by the AEF, Adeniyi expressed the Nigeria Customs Service’s eagerness to participate, highlighting the significant economic potential in the North that, if revitalized, would contribute to the overall development of the country’s economy.