Customs pledges support for NAHCO’s export centre to boost Nigeria’s global trade

By Seun Ibiyemi

The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc. (NAHCO) Export Packaging and Processing Centre (NEPPC) has received firm backing from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in its mission to transform the country’s commodity export landscape.

This assurance was given by the Controller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, during a recent inspection of the NEPPC facility in Lagos, according to a statement issued on Monday by NAHCO’s Assistant General Manager of Corporate Communications, Mr Tayo Ajakaye.

“I commend what you are doing here, and whatever efforts you are making to support the nation’s economy, particularly in the area of exports, I fully support it,” Adeniyi said during the visit.

He instructed the Customs Area Controller, Cargo Terminal Command, Mr M.T. Awe, to ensure the NEPPC adheres to all regulatory protocols necessary to achieve its strategic goals.

Adeniyi further stated that the role of Customs extends beyond revenue generation, noting that the service is equally committed to facilitating businesses that generate employment and attract foreign exchange.

Welcoming the gesture, NAHCO Group Managing Director, Mr Olumuyiwa Olumekun, described the visit as a timely boost for the company’s ongoing drive to scale up agro-export activities through Nigeria’s airports.

He said the centre’s operations are designed to meet international benchmarks and will help streamline cargo flow by relocating perishable goods processing from the main NAHCO export shed to the NEPPC.

“The centre is geared towards ensuring proper packaging of agricultural and other commodities to meet global acceptance and enhance Nigeria’s reputation in international markets,” Olumekun added.

The NEPPC, launched in 2024, was conceived as a strategic initiative to improve the quality and competitiveness of Nigerian exports and position the country more favourably on the global trade stage.