The Nigeria Customs Service has launched a formal review of 397 candidates who were barred from its recent recruitment training. According to Punch, Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi directed this individual reassessment after meeting with some of the aggrieved applicants. The agency stated that the process aims to hear legitimate grievances without lowering its established hiring standards. Affected candidates must submit their details via a designated email address to be considered for further screening.
Nairametrics reported that the screening identified issues among the 397 candidates related to physical fitness, medical records, age, and documentation. The agency noted that its substance-use checks specifically excluded cigarettes and alcohol. It explained that being on the final shortlist does not ensure enlistment, as candidates must clear all mandatory hurdles. The service warned that those found to have used fake certificates or shown other criminal behavior might face legal action.
In a separate development, AllAfrica reported that the customs chief is seeking to reassess import duty waivers worth N1.68 trillion. Adeniyi argued that these 2024 concessions need examination to see if they are meeting their economic goals. He cautioned that poorly targeted exemptions could weaken government income while the federal administration tries to strengthen public finances. This review is part of a wider push to enhance compliance and digital systems.
Adeniyi revealed that the agency collected N7.28 trillion in 2025, beating its N6.58 trillion goal. He added that first-half 2026 collections hit roughly N4.03 trillion, progressing toward an annual N11.07 trillion target. The Comptroller-General explained that import duties feed the Federation Account, with the federal government keeping 52.68 percent, states 26.72 percent, and local governments 20.60 percent. He emphasized that cutting revenue leaks is key to hitting targets without hindering legitimate trade.
The agency is also using digital tools to improve import assessment and cut delays. Adeniyi highlighted that the B'Odogwu cargo platform handled about 16,000 entries in its first three months. He stated that the National Single Window, launched in March 2026, aims to link trade-related government processes. The service is working to reduce cargo clearance times to 24 hours long-term, aiming to boost efficiency and transparency in Nigeria's trade system.