The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its dedication to inter-agency cooperation following an incident at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Cargo (MMAC) NAHCO Shed on March 6, 2025.

According to a statement issued by the NCS, the incident stemmed from a miscommunication regarding equipment movement and seating arrangements, which led to a disagreement between officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and NCS officers.

The service emphasized its adherence to the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) Safe Framework of Standards, which promotes collaboration between customs and other government agencies, as well as businesses. This commitment, the statement noted, is vital for ensuring efficient trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, and national economic growth.

The NCS further clarified that the NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export Warehouses are licensed customs bonded warehouses, operating under Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. As outlined in Section 127 of the Act, these warehouses remain under the direct control of the NCS.

Under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, the service pledged to strengthen operational protocols and enhance inter-agency relations to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.

Reaffirming its mandate to facilitate trade, enforce regulatory compliance, and safeguard national security, the NCS urged all stakeholders to prioritize cooperation, adhere to due process, and uphold mutual respect to maintain a smooth and efficient cargo operations environment.