The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, and the Kano State Government have agreed to strengthen partnership in enhancing trade facilitation in the state.
Specifically, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi after a tour of border posts in Northern Nigeria and met with the Emir of Kano and stakeholders at the Dawanau International Grains Market to address food security challenges in the state, reiterated the Service’s dedication to collaborating with the Kano community to address these common challenges.
The CGS also met with the Kano State Governor, Mallam Abba Kabir and sought his cooperation for the prompt establishment of an export terminal to help streamline business in the state.
Adeniyi explained to the governor why President Ahmed Tinubu directed that food items seized from illegal exports be returned to their owners, with the condition that they would be reintroduced into the domestic markets to alleviate food insecurity.
The CGS said he was in Kano State to rejuvenate the historical ties between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Kano State Government to enhance cooperation for the mutual benefit of both entities.
He described Kano as an esteemed center of commerce and also a significant link to foster trade in Nigeria.
Adeniyi, who stressed on the deliberate strategy of the government to promote the development of inland deports, said the NCS is making arrangements to streamline the process in Kano.
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Governor Kabir lauded the proactive approach of the NCS in safeguarding the nation’s borders and his commitment to promoting economic prosperity in Kano and Nigeria at large.
The governor said he was impressed with the Comptroller’s engagements during his official visit and reiterated the commitment of the state government to providing necessary support and cooperation to the Nigeria Customs Service in fulfilling its mandate within the state.
“Let me say that you have come to Kano at the right time when import and export activities need your service to implement policies that will enhance them because Kano is the largest commerce hub after Lagos,” Governor Abba said.
The governor commended the Customs boss for visiting the Dawanau International Grains Market and urged an expedited action in establishing an export warehouse at the market. “For that, I assure you of my government’s full support so that Kano will become stronger in terms of investment in the country,” he added.
While also appreciating the move to intensify the welfare of the citizenry by President Tinubu, Governor Abba expressed optimism that the Service, having engaged in talks with business communities in the state, will address the challenges of food scarcity.
The comptroller-general visited the Mamuda Group of Companies in Kano, where he interacted with the Chairman and CEO of the company, Hassan Hammoud and other leaders of the factory and emphasized the service commitment to forging strong partnerships with stakeholders, enhance revenue generation and facilitate trade across the country.
He highlighted the importance of easing business processes for traders nationwide, underscoring the pivotal role of collaboration between the Customs Service and private enterprises in achieving this objective.
Hammoud expressed his appreciation to Adeniyi for gracing his company with his presence and led the comptroller-general on a sightseeing tour of the factory, showcasing the company’s operations and facilities.
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