By Helen Udo, Abuja -NIGERIA.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, held a strategic diplomatic meeting with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Nigeria in Abuja on 29 April 2026.
The engagement focused on strengthening bilateral trade relations and enhancing customs cooperation between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
During the meeting, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed, congratulated Adeniyi on his emergence as Chairman of the World Customs Organization.
The Ambassador described the appointment as a major milestone for both Nigeria and Africa, highlighting Adeniyi’s leadership and contributions to global customs administration.
He commended the Nigeria Customs Service for fostering a productive partnership with the UAE, noting significant growth in non-oil trade between 2023 and 2025.
According to him, despite prevailing challenges, the Nigeria-UAE trade relationship remains one of the most successful diplomatic and economic engagements.
The Ambassador also revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding has been initiated to deepen collaboration in trade facilitation and customs operations.
In response, Adeniyi expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties and improving trade processes, particularly for SMEs.
He further emphasized the need for joint efforts to curb illicit activities, enhance trust, and promote sustainable economic growth between both nations.
