By Bon Peters
The Nigeria Customs Service Zone C, Headquarters Port Harcourt says it has marked the International Customs Day. This was contained in a press release made available to our correspondent Monday.
Addressing the officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service Zone C, the Zonal Coordinator, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) SK Dangaladima, said, ” It is an honor to stand before you today as we gather to reflect on this year’s theme: “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”
He noted that the theme encapsulated the vital roles Customs administrations around the globe play in shaping “our shared future, with a good example of the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR,psc(+) mantra.”
Continuing, he added that Customs is no longer merely about managing borders; but also about creating seamless pathways for trade, fostering security in a rapidly evolving world, and paving the way for economic growth and prosperity for all.
He emphasized that Customs job is a responsibility that required innovation, collaboration, and, above all, unwavering commitment, insisting that “Customs Efficiency: Empowering Trade and Innovation
Efficiency lies at the heart of our work.”
The Customs boss, stated that in 2025,officers and men would be facing a world where supply chains would be increasingly globalised, trade volumes would be higher than ever, and consumer expectations would demand speed and precision, noting that ” Customs administrations worldwide are rising to meet these challenges by embracing digital transformation technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics are no longer futuristic concepts—they are tools we actively employ to reduce bottlenecks, enhance transparency, and ensure that goods move faster and more reliably than ever before.”
But, he was quick to posit that “efficiency isn’t just about speed. It’s about building systems that are equitable and inclusive, ensuring that even small businesses, entrepreneurs, and developing nations have access to the global marketplace.”
He however, admonished that Customs is not just moving goods; but moving opportunities, Security and Safeguarding Borders in a Complex World even as he insisted that while efficiency is paramount, it must never come at the cost of security.
He maintained that in a world marked by complex threats such as cybercrime, terrorism, smuggling, and environmental degradation, Customs administrations serve as a critical line of defense.
Dangaladima stated that in 2025, the Zone would be committed to security by adopting a proactive approach especially the Advanced risk management systems which would enable the officers and men to identify threats before they materialize.
He emphasized the need for international Collaborative effort through partnerships, information sharing, or joint operations so as to strengthen the ability to protect the borders while maintaining the integrity of the supply chain.
On the issue of security, he was of the view, that “Security is no longer a solitary endeavor. It is a shared responsibility that requires trust, innovation, and vigilance.”
He reiterated that by ensuring safe and secure trade, “we protect not only our nations but the values of stability and fairness that underpin global prosperity.”
On Prosperity, he said that driving economic growth and Sustainability ultimately, customs commitment to efficiency and security is aimed at fostering prosperity.
He averred that Customs is a cornerstone of economic development, driving investment, innovation, and job creation.
But he maintained that prosperity is not just about growth, but about sustainability.
He admonished that as the World is facing the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, Customs administrations should take on a leadership role in promoting green trade practices and from monitoring the trade in endangered species to supporting the transition to renewable energy technologies, His words, “we are ensuring that trade aligns with the principles of environmental stewardship.”
“Moreover, we understand that true prosperity is inclusive. Customs must act as a bridge between nations, facilitating equitable trade relationships and enabling developing economies to thrive alongside more established ones.
Commitment in Action”
Continuing, he said “Delivering on these commitments – efficiency, security, and prosperity—is no small task. It demands dedication, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset. It requires the alignment of policy, technology, and human expertise.”
“But most importantly, it requires collaboration.”
He added that Customs administrations could not operate in silos but need the active participation of governments, international organizations, private sector partners, and civil society to ensure success.
According to him,” Together, we can build a Customs community that is agile, inclusive, and resilient—one that serves as a model for how global systems can function effectively.”
He concluded by saying “As we move through 2025 and beyond, let us remember that our commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity is more than a mission statement—it is a promise to the people we serve. Every container cleared, every border secured, and every trade relationship facilitated brings us closer to a world where Customs serves as a force for good, delivering tangible benefits to economies, societies, and individuals alike.”
“Let us work together to ensure that this commitment remains steadfast and impactful. By delivering on our promises, we not only uphold the ideals of this year’s theme but also contribute to a future where borders unite rather than divide, and where trade serves as a bridge to shared prosperity.”
