By Tunde Ojudun
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced investor confidence and deepened trade relations with the United States following a high‑level stakeholder engagement with the American Business Council (ABC) on Thursday, 12 February 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The forum brought together senior Customs officers, including Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, executives of American companies, and key industry stakeholders to deliberate on trade facilitation, dispute resolution, regulatory reforms, and strategies to improve Nigeria’s investment climate.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyi emphasized that stakeholder engagement is a critical pillar of modern customs administration. He noted that sustained dialogue has helped resolve long‑standing operational challenges, citing the recent settlement of a seven‑year classification dispute involving a Council member as a clear example of progress.
“Stakeholder engagement is one of the major pillars of any modern Customs administration. We have realised that when we address issues in a mutually beneficial manner, everybody becomes a winner,” Adeniyi said.
He also announced the introduction of a unified dispute resolution mechanism designed to streamline procedures, reduce delays, and lower the cost of resolving trade‑related conflicts. Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to transparency, modernization reforms, and creating a business‑friendly environment capable of attracting foreign investment.
Margaret Olele, Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, commended the NCS for maintaining open communication with the private sector and taking practical steps to address long‑standing trade concerns.
“We are seeing positive outcomes from these engagements, including the resolution of long‑standing issues affecting our members. While not every concern can be resolved immediately, sustained dialogue helps balance national interests with the need for an efficient business environment,” Olele said.