The World Customs Organisation (WCO) has underscored the critical importance of regional collaboration in driving sustainable reforms and innovation within customs administrations, particularly in West and Central Africa. This was revealed in a statement issued on Sunday by the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Abdullahi Maiwada.
According to the statement, the Secretary-General of the WCO, Ian Saunders, made this position known during the recently concluded WCO – West and Central Africa (WCA) Regional Conference held in Abuja. The high-level summit brought together customs leaders, technical experts, donor agencies, and key stakeholders from across the region for five days of intensive deliberations focused on shaping the future of customs operations and advancing trade facilitation.
Saunders, who was represented at the conference by Mr. Ebenezer Tafili, affirmed that regional engagement and mutual support remain essential in creating “impactful projects and the sustainable development of customs administrations.” He stressed that the customs ecosystem thrives on connectivity and unity of purpose, encouraging stakeholders to remain committed to the collaborative journey.
“Customs connect us all—from the early brainstorming sessions to the final dance,” he said metaphorically. “Let us continue this journey together to strengthen our administrations and drive economic development across the region.”
The conference, which held under the theme of innovation, integration, and reform, also featured strong support from the Nigerian government. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun, while addressing participants through a representative—Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi—commended delegates for their resilience and commitment throughout the demanding sessions.
“I know the schedule has been very intense, but I hope you have also taken time to enjoy the hospitality and rich culture around you,” Edun stated. “I assure you that the recommendations made during this conference will be taken seriously, as we remain dedicated to supporting ongoing modernisation efforts within our customs institutions.”
The minister, speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, also extended warm appreciation to delegates for their participation and wished them safe travels back to their home countries.
From the regional leadership level, Commissioner of Cameroon Customs and spokesperson for the Directors-General of Customs in West and Central Africa, Edwin Fongod Nuvaga, expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and other donor partners for their enduring support. He highlighted the role of international partnerships in executing key customs development projects across the region.
“Throughout this conference, we engaged in meaningful discussions, collaborative sessions, and project planning that directly respond to the region’s most urgent needs,” Nuvaga stated. “Our collective engagement reflects a shared vision for digital transformation, enhanced connectivity, and inclusive economic growth.”
The donors were also well represented, with the Deputy Director of Japan’s Customs and Tariff Bureau, Mr. Mitsuru Haga, delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks on behalf of international partners. He praised the collaborative spirit of the WCO-WCA delegates and the strategic vision that shaped the conference outcomes.
As the curtains drew on the Abuja gathering, delegates departed with a renewed commitment to building more resilient, integrated, and modernised customs systems. The event laid a solid foundation for future cooperation and reaffirmed the region’s dedication to aligning customs practices with global standards for sustainable development and economic advancement.
