CGC Adeniyi Highlights Interoperability as Cornerstone of AfCFTA Customs Modernisation
CGC Adeniyi Highlights Interoperability as Cornerstone of AfCFTA Customs Modernisation
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has underscored the importance of interoperable customs systems across Africa, describing them as essential for the successful rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Customs Modernisation Project.
Speaking at the signing of a landmark 20-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Agreement between the AfCFTA Secretariat and Bergmans Security during the Digital Trade Forum 2026 in Lagos, Adeniyi noted that fragmented technologies among African customs administrations remain a major obstacle to trade integration.
“One of the major obstacles we have faced in implementing AfCFTA is the interoperability of our systems. All customs administrations cannot operate at the same level, but interoperability makes it easier for us to connect to one system and achieve trade facilitation,” Adeniyi said.
He welcomed the choice of Bergmans Security to spearhead the initiative, calling it a milestone for Nigeria’s customs modernisation journey and a recognition of the country’s digital transformation efforts.
AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene explained that Nigeria’s success in deploying digital technologies to boost revenue collection and efficiency inspired the Secretariat to adopt its model.
“Nigeria is already benefiting from these technologies. The continent has much to gain from this model, and our partnership with Bergmans Security will help us build a modern, interoperable customs system that expands market access for all economic operators,” Mene stated.
The AfCFTA Customs Modernisation Project aims to harmonise digital platforms across member states, strengthen customs cooperation, enhance trade facilitation, optimise revenue collection, and accelerate AfCFTA’s full implementation
By creating a unified and efficient continental trading environment, the project is expected to significantly reduce barriers to intra-African trade and drive economic growth.
