After Clashing with FAAN At Lagos Airport, Customs Reaffirms Inter-agency Collaboration

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has described the clash between its officers and officials of the Federal Airport Authority (FAAN) on 6h of March 2025 as a miscommunication regarding equipment movement and seating arrangements.

The service has consequently reaffirmed its commitment to Interagency collaboration, even as it insists that the two facilities at the airport; NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export
Warehouses are licensed Customs Bonded Warehouses operating in full compliance
with Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023

In a statement on Saturday, signed by National Public Relations Officer of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, the service said “In line with the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) Safe Framework of Standards, which underscores Customs-to-Customs, Customs-to-Other Government Agencies (OGA), and Customs-to-Businesses cooperation, the NCS remains
unwavering in its commitment to fostering a collaborative working environment.

“This approach is essential for seamless trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, and
the overall growth of the national economy.

“While the Service continues to engage constructively with all relevant stakeholders to strengthen operational protocols and to uphold the collective national interest, it is essential to reiterate that the NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export
Warehouses are licensed Customs Bonded Warehouses operating in full compliance
with Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

“As stipulated in Section 127 of the Act, these warehouses remain under the control of the NCS.

“Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale
Adeniyi, the Service remains committed to fostering inter-agency cooperation
and ensuring the smooth operation of Customs-controlled areas to prevent the
recurrence of such incidents.

“The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirms its mandate to facilitate trade, enforce
regulatory compliance, and safeguard national security. We urge all stakeholders to
prioritise cooperation, adhere to due process, and maintain mutual respect to sustain
a conducive environment for economic growth and seamless cargo operations” the statement read.