Customs moves to end illegal arms imports with Advance Ruling system

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has said that the newly introduced Advance Ruling System will put an end to the illicit importation of firearms and substandard goods into Nigeria.

Speaking at a sensitization program on the Advance Ruling System organised for officers in Lagos on Monday, Adeniyi emphasized that the system empowers customs officers to prohibit unwholesome goods from entering the country, as mandated by Section 24 of the Customs Act.

Adeniyi, who was represented by the Zonal Coordinator in charge of Zone A, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) Saidu Yusuf, explained that the system requires importers to declare the status of items beforehand, allowing officers to clarify classification, consignment types, origin, and valuation.

According to him, the system would also determine whether the products to be imported are covered by the end-use certificate or whether the products are under restriction.

He said upon completion, a certificate is issued to the importer for a moderate fee as deemed fit by the government.

“These guidelines are key tools of the World Customs Organisation as well as the World Trade Organisation. By the time the programme becomes fully operational, it will ensure that our role as officers is showcased. It would also show whether the imported items are covered by the end user certificate or not,” he said.

Adeniyi urged officers to adhere to the NCS rules of engagement, ensuring a smooth implementation of the Advance Ruling System and other trade facilitation tools.