Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has taken a significant step in strengthening global partnerships by reviving the over-decade-old Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA) with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The agreement aims to promote better service delivery to Nigerians through global collaborations and data-driven decision-making.
During a bilateral meeting in Washington, D.C., Adeniyi emphasized the importance of addressing cross-border crimes, including drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and money laundering, while ensuring national security. He highlighted the successful interception of illegal items at major ports and airports in Nigeria.
Adeniyi stressed the need for increased capacity building to tackle Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement and opiate issues. He also underscored the importance of a Center for Advanced Cargo and Passenger Data Analysis to mitigate risks and enhance cargo and passenger security.
The meeting covered challenges in commercial air cargo security and potential partnerships with US government agencies. Adeniyi highlighted the importance of future operations, including CBP’s global targeting advisory directors and their capabilities in information sharing on cargo and passenger sides.
James Collins, Assistant Commissioner of the Office of International Affairs at US Customs and Border Protection, emphasized data integration, partnerships, and targeted efforts to address transnational criminal groups exploiting seams and boundaries.
The meeting concluded with a presentation on Artificial Intelligence by Sunil Madhugri from the Office of Information and Technology, US Customs and Border Protection, highlighting the future of technology in enhancing customs operations and security.
In a related event, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi visited the Nigerian Embassy in the USA, where he was received by Mr. Rabiu Lawal, Charge d’Affaires a.i, and his team. The CGC appreciated them for their warm reception and their tireless efforts for all Nigerians in the diaspora.
