By fabulous reporter
A delegation from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) led by Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has recently participated in the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition held in Hanoi, Vietnam, from October 10th to 12th, 2023.
With twelve delegates from the Nigeria Customs Service, as well as management and staff of the trade modernization project representing the private sector in attendance, the event began with presentations highlighting Vietnam’s dynamic economy.
Welcoming participants at the conference, the Secretary General of the WCO, Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, stressed the pivotal role of technology in supporting Customs Administrations worldwide.
Speaking at the conference, the Acting CGC emphasized the significance of the WCO Technology Conference, which has been a pivotal event for over a decade, providing a platform for customs administrations, partner companies, sponsors, technology firms, and more to collaborate and exchange insights on the effective integration of technology in customs operations.
He expressed enthusiasm, noting the deployment of advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, non-intrusive technology, and data analytics for customs challenges and solutions. Adeniyi sees the adoption of these technological solutions as transformative for Nigeria, particularly in improving trade facilitation and revenue generation.
Breakout sessions at the conference delved into contemporary challenges and innovative solutions, including gender equality, with Nigerian delegate Chief Superintendent of Customs Oluwabukola Omoniyi participating. Assistant Comptroller-General ACG Kikelomo Adeola, responsible for ICT/Modernization, also attended, emphasizing an automation and AI-driven approach to enhancing customs operations.
Managing Director of the Trade Modernization Project, Jummai Umar Ajijola highlighted the strong partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Trade Modernization Project, working toward end-to-end automation of customs processes and procedures.
The conference’s theme, “Embracing the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology, Fostering Innovation, and Nurturing the Next Generation of Customs Professionals,” emphasized the significance of technology in customs operations and professional development.
During his vote of thanks to wrap up the end of the conference, the WCO Secretary General, ably represented by Hans Pieters, Head of Administration and Personnel WCO, announced that the 2024 edition of the WCO Technology Conference and Exhibition would be hosted by Africa in Cairo, Egypt
