ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) has presented groundbreaking approaches to trade facilitation at the just concluded 2024 World Border Security Congress(WBSC) in Instabul, Turkey.
WBSC which took place from 24th-26th April, 2024, in instabul, Turkey, was a three day event meant for Senior border officials to deliberate and debate current and future policies, implementation issues, challenges as well as new and developing technologies that contribute towards safe and secure Border and migration management.
The annual event gathers law enforcement agents, industry experts, security analysts, IT vendors, scholars, and representatives from international organisations such as Interpol, WCO, AU, USCBP, UNODC, and OSCE. The forum serves as a platform for brainstorming and exchanging ideas to address the complex issues surrounding global frontiers.
While presenting a paper titled “Enabling Trade Facilitation Under Fragile Borders: Nigeria’s Experience,” Assistant Comptroller of Customs Sanusi Tasiu Saulawa emphasised the challenges and opportunities faced by African borders, with Nigeria as a focal point.
Saulawa’s presentation highlighted Nigeria Customs’ efforts in trade facilitation, including initiatives like the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and Advance Ruling. These strategies aim to streamline border procedures, enhance security, and promote efficient trade flow. By sharing Nigeria’s experience, Saulawa contributed to the collective effort to find practical solutions to the challenges posed by vast and often fragile borders. His paper underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing border security issues on a global scale. The presentation solidifies Nigeria’s position as a leader in border management and trade facilitation efforts.
