WCO Emphasizes Regional Cooperation As Catalyst For Customs Reform

WCO Emphasizes Regional Cooperation As Catalyst For Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has underscored the importance of regional collaboration in advancing customs reforms and innovation across West and Central Africa.

This message was highlighted in a statement issued on Sunday by the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada. According to the release, WCO Secretary-General Ian Saunders delivered the remarks during the WCO West and Central Africa Regional Conference, held recently in Abuja…READ MORE…

The five-day event brought together customs professionals, development partners, and stakeholders from across the region to share insights, evaluate current progress, and strategize on the future of customs administration.

Speaking through his representative, Mr. Ebenezer Tafili, Saunders reiterated WCO’s commitment to fostering dialogue that leads to impactful reforms and sustainable development within regional customs systems.

“From initial discussions to final implementation, customs serve as a unifying thread. Let’s continue working together to enhance our administrations and contribute to regional economic growth,” he stated.

Also addressing participants, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Olawale Edun—represented by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi—commended attendees for their dedication and meaningful contributions. He assured that the Federal Government would consider all recommendations presented, as part of its continued support for customs modernisation initiatives.

On behalf of the Directors-General of Customs in the region, Cameroon’s Commissioner of Customs, Edwin Fongod Nuvaga, expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and other international partners for their sustained support in driving regional projects.

“Throughout the conference, we engaged in productive discussions, formed strategic collaborations, and proposed solutions to pressing challenges. Our united efforts signal a strong commitment to innovation, enhanced integration, and sustainable economic progress,” Nuvaga noted.

Delivering the closing remarks, Mr. Mitsuru Haga, Deputy Director of the Customs and Tariff Bureau of Japan, extended appreciation to all delegates on behalf of donor organizations. He lauded the delegates’ collaborative spirit and proactive outlook.

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to deeper regional cooperation, setting the stage for continued progress in customs transformation and long-term development across West and Central Africa.