The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has expressed its enthusiastic support for the recent approval by the federal government to establish the Nigeria Customs Service University.
This initiative is seen as a significant step towards enhancing the intellectual output, overall performance, capacity, and productivity of the Officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
In a statement released by Hon. Ibrahim Tanko, the National Coordinator of the 100% Compliance Team of NAGAFF, the association commended the federal government and the NCS for this visionary move.
“We welcome the idea wholeheartedly,” Tanko stated, emphasizing the potential of the university to strengthen and amplify the capabilities of Customs Officers.
“The establishment of the Nigeria Customs Service University is expected to provide cutting-edge training and education tailored to the needs of customs officers, thereby improving their efficiency and effectiveness in managing Nigeria’s borders and trade. This development aligns with the broader goals of enhancing trade enforcement, revenue generation, and customs expertise in the region.”
Tanko also highlighted the importance of utilizing the existing customs training schools in Ikeja and Kano for conducting promotion examinations for Customs Officers.
He urged the Comptroller General of Customs to review the current practice of outsourcing these examinations to external contractors, while advocating instead, for in-house management to ensure integrity and security.
“The Nigeria Customs training schools are well-positioned to conduct such examinations. The commandants are officers of high caliber and intellect, capable of managing the promotion process effectively.”
NAGAFF’s call for in-house examiners reflects a broader desire to maintain the prestige and integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service. By leveraging the expertise within the service, the association believes that the NCS can achieve greater transparency and efficiency in its operations.
As the Nigeria Customs Service University project progresses, it is expected to become a hub for excellence in customs education and training, supporting the service’s vision to be a world-class customs administration
This initiative, coupled with the effective use of existing training facilities, promises to elevate the standards of the Nigeria Customs Service and contribute to the nation’s economic growth
