CCG Seeks AI-Driven Revenue System, Stronger Digital Governance
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has called for the adoption of disruptive technologies and artificial intelligence to strengthen governance, trade administration and revenue generation in Nigeria.
Adeniyi made the call in Ilorin while delivering the keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference organised by the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philology, RUDN University, Russia.
The conference, themed “Disruptive Technology: Human and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy,” drew scholars, academics, technocrats and policy makers from within and outside Nigeria.
Speaking at the University of Ilorin auditorium during the opening ceremony, the Customs boss said artificial intelligence and emerging technologies were already transforming governance structures and trade systems across the world.
According to him, technology has changed how Customs administrations analyse trade patterns, process information and make operational decisions.
“Technology has significantly transformed the way Customs administrations understand trade patterns, process data, and make informed operational decisions,” Adeniyi said.
He explained that the deployment of digital tools in Customs operations had improved efficiency, transparency and accountability, adding that the Service remained committed to global best practices in revenue generation, trade facilitation and border security.
The Customs CG also urged government institutions, financial bodies, auditors, legislators and policy makers to deepen collaboration towards building a stronger and more sustainable economy.
“The importance of collaboration among relevant stakeholders cannot be overemphasised if we are to build a more efficient and sustainable economic system,” he stated.
Adeniyi, who arrived in Ilorin on Tuesday, was received at the Ilorin International Airport by senior officers of the Kwara Area Command alongside officials of sister security and revenue-generating agencies.
During the visit, he proceeded to the Kwara Area Command headquarters where he received operational briefings on enforcement activities, revenue performance and other activities of the Command.
The Customs boss commended officers and personnel of the Command for their professionalism and commitment to revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations and trade facilitation.
He also inspected the Government Warehouse where seized and forfeited items are kept, expressing satisfaction with the management of the facility while stressing the need for transparency, accountability and proper documentation.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Kwara Area Command, Suleiman Sani Mohammed, the visit was described as a morale booster for officers and a reflection of the Service’s commitment to integrity, excellence and efficient service delivery.
