The initiative demonstrates increasing collaboration between the Customs Service and the National Assembly aimed at enhancing accountability and integrating modern technology into public administration.
The Nigeria Customs Service has introduced a capacity-building programme centered on Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven revenue generation, remittances, and reconciliation. This initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in public financial management. The training, which took place at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel on April 13, 2026, brought together senior Customs officers, technology experts, and members of legislative oversight committees.
The programme reflects a growing partnership between the Customs Service and the National Assembly, aimed at strengthening accountability and integrating modern technology into public administration. Speaking at the event, Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to adopting innovative solutions to improve transparency in public accounting and boost operational performance. He noted that emerging technologies such as AI are already enabling the Service to better analyze international trade patterns.
Adeniyi further emphasized the importance of collectively leveraging AI across the organization, encouraging participants to actively engage in the training to maximize its impact. He added that Customs operations exist within a broader national and global trade ecosystem, making technological advancement essential for efficiency and competitiveness.
In her remarks, Deputy Comptroller-General Kikelomo Adeola described the programme as both timely and strategic, stressing that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day necessity. She explained that the training aims to address existing gaps in revenue management while equipping officers with the skills required to effectively utilize AI tools in safeguarding public funds.
Legislative leaders also commended the initiative. Bamidele Salam, Chairman of the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, praised the Customs Service for its reform-oriented approach and commitment to innovation. He noted that the adoption of AI within Nigeria’s public sector remains limited, making the programme a significant step toward modernization.
Similarly, Senator Ahmed Aliyu, Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, called for sustained collaboration to develop resilient systems capable of supporting future generations. A presentation by technology expert Bamidele Oyedeji further demonstrated how AI can enhance trade facilitation and improve operational efficiency within Customs administrations.
Overall, the programme underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen revenue assurance, improve transparency, and enhance operational effectiveness across its functions.
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