By Tunde Ojudun
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has encouraged younger officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to build global expertise in Post Clearance Audit (PCA), describing it as a cornerstone of modern customs practice and a vital tool for Nigeria’s trade facilitation agenda.
Speaking at the closing session of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme on January 23, 2026, in Abuja, Adeniyi stressed that mastering PCA techniques is the most effective way for new recruits to align their careers with international best practices.
“Post Clearance Audit is one of those emerging tools developed by WCO, and this is the best way in which you can start your career,” he advised. “Let your aspirations be shaped toward the dream that one day, you too can become a PCA expert.”
The CGC described the 5-day programme as transformative, noting that officers were exposed to advanced audit tools, risk management strategies, and compliance monitoring techniques. He emphasized that the knowledge gained would enhance analytical capacity, safeguard revenue, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a competitive trading partner.
Adeniyi reaffirmed NCS’s commitment to continuous reform, collaboration with international partners, and adoption of modern tools to align with global standards.
WCO Trade Facilitation Expert, James Clark, commended NCS for its willingness to embrace reform and modern practices, highlighting the Service’s progress within a short period.
“Impact level means you have created a more effective, more facilitative trading environment. I have the utmost confidence in your ability to do this,” Clark remarked.
He stressed the importance of institutional commitment and consistent application of PCA tools, assuring continued support from WCO experts.
The 5-day WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, funded by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs of the United Kingdom, ran from 19 to 23 January 2026 and focused on strengthening customs reforms, with particular emphasis on Post Clearance Audit (PCA) and risk-based compliance management.
The conclusion of the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme marks another milestone in the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing efforts to promote ease of doing business, strengthen compliance, and position the country as a competitive and reliable trading partner on the global stage.