Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Customs set to boost cross-border trade

The Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah has reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service to advance cross-border trade facilitation and promote economic development.

Dr. Pius Akutah made this promised during his recently working visit to the Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Comptroller G. Otunla, at the command’s headquarters at Idiroko Border.

Represented by Ms. Adaora Nwonu, Deputy Director, Trade Services, Dr. Pius Akutah, said the Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains committed to supporting Customs and other border agencies in creating a seamless trade environment.

“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains committed to supporting Customs and other border agencies in creating a seamless trade environment. We are here to deepen this relationship and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth,” she stated.

In his response, Comptroller Otunla appreciated the Council’s active role in promoting trade facilitation across Nigeria. He noted that Customs remains open to collaboration with the NSC and other stakeholders to ensure the smooth movement of goods, curb smuggling, and foster transparency at border points.

The two agencies deliberated on strengthening operational ties, identifying joint strategies to address barriers to trade, and reinforcing ethical practices along the corridor. Their discussions also explored the role of both agencies in streamlining border processes and supporting the Federal Government’s goal of boosting regional commerce.

As part of the visit, the Comptroller led the NSC delegation on a facility tour, including an inspection of the office space allocated to the Council for its proposed Border Information Centre, a strategic initiative aimed at improving information flow, transparency, and compliance at the border.