Nigeria and India Deepen Customs Ties at WCO Policy Commission


Nigeria Customs Service (NCS ) in  bold step toward bolstering global trade and enforcement collaboration with  India reaffirmed their commitment to stronger customs cooperation during a high-level meeting at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Policy Commission in Brussels.

Leading Nigeria’s delegation, Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi met with Mr. Surjit Bhujbal, a senior official from India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), to evaluate progress under the landmark Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) signed during the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to Nigeria in November 2024.




The bilateral talks zeroed in on critical areas impacting both nations: Improving customs valuation and addressing transfer pricing abuse Integrating customs and tax systems to enhance compliance and transparency Tackling the importation of substandard pharmaceutical products

Both countries emphasized the early success of intelligence sharing, which has already led to the interception of counterfeit medical products in Nigeria.

“Today’s dialogue builds on the strong foundations of our CMAA,” said CGC Adeniyi. “We’re intensifying efforts to tackle undervaluation, abusive transfer pricing, and system integration between customs and tax authorities.”

To take the partnership further, Nigeria and India are exploring: Joint technical missions Capacity-building and training programs Shared data systems for better risk management and revenue assurance

India, recognizing Nigeria as a strategic partner in Africa, expressed strong interest in expanding technical cooperation.

“The CMAA gives us a structured platform for mutual assistance, information exchange, and capacity building,” said Mr. Bhujbal. “India regards Nigeria as a vital partner on the continent.”


Nigeria’s presence at the WCO Policy Commission underscores its broader ambition: aligning with global best practices in trade facilitation and customs enforcement.

“This partnership reflects our vision of a smarter, collaborative, and globally connected customs administration,” Adeniyi concluded.

As both countries deepen their ties under the CMAA, the collaboration is poised to deliver lasting benefits for trade, security, and institutional growth  not just for Nigeria and India, but for the global customs community.


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