CGC Urges Young Customs Officers to Build Global Expertise in Post-Clearance Audit

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has called on younger officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to pursue global competence in Post-Clearance Audit (PCA), describing it as a critical skill for modern customs administration and a key driver of effective trade facilitation.
Adeniyi gave the charge on January 23, 2026, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, at the close of the five-day World Customs Organisation (WCO) Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme. He said proficiency in emerging audit tools such as PCA would help new officers align their careers with international best practices.
Addressing participants, the CGC noted that many global experts in customs audit began their careers by mastering foundational tools developed by the WCO, stressing that PCA offers young officers a clear pathway to professional growth and international relevance.
He described the just-concluded programme as both insightful and transformative, explaining that the sessions exposed officers to advanced PCA techniques that would enhance analytical skills, operational efficiency and compliance monitoring.
According to him, the training provided deeper understanding of modern audit systems, risk management and compliance frameworks, all of which are essential for facilitating trade while protecting government revenue and national economic interests.
Adeniyi reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to continuous reform, stronger collaboration with international partners and the adoption of modern customs tools to reposition Nigeria’s customs administration in line with global standards.
Also speaking, WCO Trade Facilitation Expert, James Clark, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its openness to reform and adoption of modern customs practices, noting that the Service has recorded notable progress within a short period.
Clark emphasised that sustained institutional commitment, capacity building and consistent application of PCA tools are crucial to achieving long-term impact, adding that Nigeria is well-placed to deepen its gains if current momentum is maintained.
He expressed confidence in the ability of the NCS to create a more effective and facilitative trading environment, thanking participants for their active engagement throughout the five-day programme.
The WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, funded by the United Kingdom’s Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, was held from January 19 to 23, 2026. It focused on strengthening customs reforms, with emphasis on Post-Clearance Audit and risk-based compliance management.
The completion of the programme marks another milestone in the Nigeria Customs Service’s efforts to enhance ease of doing business, strengthen compliance and position Nigeria as a competitive and reliable player in global trade.