Nigeria and Saudi Arabia Sign Historic Customs Cooperation Agreement by James Ogar. Abuja

 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark Bilateral Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters. The agreement was signed on June 26, 2025, at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Headquarters in Brussels, marking a significant milestone in the customs diplomacy of both countries.

The Comptroller-General of Customs of Nigeria Adewale Adeniyi with his Saudi Arab

Strengthening Customs Cooperation

The agreement establishes a formal framework for mutual administrative assistance between the two nations in customs enforcement, classification, valuation, revenue protection, and coordinated border management. It draws from internationally recognized instruments, particularly the WCO Recommendation on Mutual Administrative Assistance (1953), and other relevant conventions to which both countries are signatories.

Benefits of the Agreement

The agreement will enable both countries to:


- Share intelligence and best practices in customs administration, enhancing their ability to combat customs offences and illicit trade

- Collaborate on investigations and enforcement activities, facilitating the exchange of information and coordination of efforts

- Exchange data and information on customs matters, improving the accuracy and efficiency of customs procedures

- Implement prohibitions and restrictions based on their respective laws, ensuring compliance with national regulations and international agreements


Commitment to Enhanced Border Security


The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described the agreement as a major leap in Nigeria's strategic customs diplomacy and a reaffirmation of the Service's commitment to building cross-border alliances for secure and efficient trade. He emphasized that the agreement aligns with the Service's broader efforts to modernize customs, promote transparency, and deepen Nigeria's integration into the global trade ecosystem.

Mutual Benefits

The Governor of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Suhail bin Mohammed Abanmi, expressed satisfaction with the bilateral engagement, describing the agreement as a reflection of shared priorities in trade facilitation and customs efficiency. He noted that the partnership will enable both countries to share knowledge, strengthen enforcement, and safeguard their economies from illicit trade.


Key Provisions

The agreement includes key provisions for:

- Mutual administrative assistance in customs enforcement

- Exchange of information and data on customs matters

- Collaboration on investigations and enforcement activities

- Implementation of prohibitions and restrictions based on respective laws

- Coordinated border management


Indefinite Duration

The agreement is of indefinite duration, with provisions for mutual amendment and termination by written notice through diplomatic channels. Both parties are committed to working together to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement and to promoting a more efficient and effective customs administration.


Conclusion

The signing of the Bilateral Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia marks a significant step forward in the customs diplomacy of both countries. The agreement will enable both nations to strengthen their customs cooperation, enhance border security, and promote trade facilitation, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of their economies.

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