ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has addressed allegations made by aviation unions regarding an incident at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Cargo, MMAC, NAHCO Shed on March 6, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Service’s Spokesman, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada on Saturday, a miscommunication about equipment movement and seating arrangements led to a disagreement between Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, officials and NCS officers.
AC Maiwada explained that while the Service continues to engage constructively with all relevant stakeholders to strengthen operational protocols and uphold collective national interest, it is essential to reiterate that the NAHCO and SAHCO Import & Export Warehouses are licensed Customs Bonded Warehouses operating in full compliance with Section 122 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
“As stipulated in Section 127 of the Act, these warehouses remain under the control of the NCS,” he stated.
Maiwada added that in line with the World Customs Organisation’s, WCO, Safe Framework of Standards, which underscores Customs-to-Customs, Customs-to-Other Government Agencies, OGA, and Customs-to-Businesses cooperation, the NCS remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering a collaborative working environment.
This approach he said, is essential for seamless trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, and the overall growth of the national economy.
“Under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to interagency cooperation and ensuring smooth operations in Customs-controlled areas.
“We urge all stakeholders to prioritise cooperation, adhere to due process, and maintain mutual respect to sustain a conducive environment for economic growth and seamless cargo operations,” he stated.
The Aviation Unions, comprising the National Union of Air Transport Employees,NUATE, Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, ATSSSAN, and Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, ANAP, had earlier alleged an assault on the FAAN Director of Aviation Security Services, AVSEC, in a letter.
The Unions demanded a reduction in the number of Customs personnel operating in Civil aviation, citing global standards.
