Adeniyi Pushes Customs Reforms as Nigeria Bags IATF2027 Hosting Rights

Adeniyi Pushes Customs Reforms as Nigeria Bags IATF2027 Hosting Rights

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has declared that customs reforms are crucial to unlocking Africa’s economic potential, even as Nigeria secured the hosting rights for the 2027 edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF).

Delivering a keynote address on Friday, at the ongoing IATF2025 in Algiers, Algeria, Adeniyi said African countries can no longer afford to treat reforms as optional if they hope to compete in global markets.

“Customs reforms are no longer optional; they are essential for Africa to realise its full potential in trade. We must prioritise efficiency, transparency, and innovation to strengthen the competitiveness of African exporters and advance continental integration,” Adeniyi stressed.

The Customs chief explained that Nigeria has already embarked on sweeping reforms, including the digitalisation of clearance processes, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, and capacity building, all aimed at creating a seamless trading environment.

He emphasised that these efforts align with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and would further position Nigeria as a hub for trade facilitation and industrial growth.

The IATF, launched in 2018, has evolved into Africa’s premier platform for trade and investment. The 2025 edition is projected to generate $44 billion in deals, drawing thousands of exhibitors, investors, and government representatives from across the continent.

A highlight of this year’s event was the announcement that Nigeria will host IATF2027, a development widely seen as recognition of the country’s leadership in regional integration and ongoing economic reforms.

“With Nigeria hosting IATF2027, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to showcase the impact of our reforms and demonstrate how Customs can drive sustainable economic growth. The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to creating a transparent, efficient, and technology-driven system that benefits all stakeholders,” Adeniyi said.