By George Ozalla
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said it is strengthening efforts to deepen legitimate trade with China while intensifying the fight against illicit economic activities, as both countries move to improve cooperation and streamline cross-border trade operations.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi MFR, made this known on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, when he received the Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.), at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.
Adeniyi stated that the visit further underscored ongoing efforts to align Nigeria’s trade system with international standards, adding that China remains Nigeria’s biggest trading partner. He further noted that the engagement focused on strengthening lawful trade channels and ensuring compliance among foreign operators.
“The envoy is not a stranger to the Service considering his antecedents, military background and distinguished career,” Adeniyi said, adding that Dambazau’s experience positions him to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in China.
He further stated that some Chinese companies are already participating in the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, while compliant firms continue to receive commendation for adhering to global trade standards.
Adeniyi disclosed that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) operates a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), describing it as a key framework for intelligence sharing and strengthening bilateral customs cooperation.
He further emphasised the need for improved coordination among government agencies, stating that effective trade facilitation depends on collaboration and harmonised operations across institutions. He also stressed that trade figures between both countries must align to avoid discrepancies in economic reporting.
“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefit,” he stated.
On enforcement, Adeniyi said Nigeria was working to ensure it does not become a transit route for illegal wildlife trafficking, while also calling for stronger cooperation in tackling illegal mining and improving intelligence sharing at the borders.
In his remarks, the Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.), expressed appreciation for the reception, noting that it was his first official visit to the Customs Headquarters since his appointment.
He said closer engagement with the Nigeria Customs Service would ease his diplomatic assignment and enhance outcomes in Nigeria-China relations, while also stressing the importance of Customs in supporting trade under zero-tariff arrangements for African countries.
Dambazau further called for reduced cargo clearance time, stronger certification processes, and tighter regulation of imports, warning against the abuse of trade policies for unlawful gains.
“Stronger collaboration and continuous support from the NCS will ensure smoother trade processes and the full realisation of Nigeria and China trade relations,” he stated.
