Nigeria Customs Service Hosts Landmark Roundtable on Operational Best Practices for Government-Owned Companies

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently hosted a high-level roundtable discussion on operational best practices for government-owned companies, bringing together key stakeholders from the military, paramilitary, and financial sectors. The event, which took place on February 6, 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Maitama Abuja, was a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among government-owned enterprises.

Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, in his keynote address, underscored the significance of corporate governance, financial autonomy, and operational efficiency in managing government-owned enterprises. He highlighted the NCS's operation of four companies, each contributing to economic growth, job creation, and service delivery.

"We are here today to examine these companies' operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency," CGC Adeniyi stated.

The roundtable discussion featured expert insights from Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.), and Professor Peter Akper, SAN. They discussed the unique challenges faced by government-owned companies, including the delicate balance between government oversight and business autonomy.

Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (Rtd.) provided valuable insights into the establishment and management of military-owned companies, tracing their evolution and impact. He highlighted the pioneering role of Engineering and Technical Services Limited, followed by other entities such as Properties, Housing and Construction Services, and the Nigerian Air Force Investment Company Limited.

Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, former Director of Logistics and Defence Administration, emphasized the importance of understanding the legal and structural frameworks of government-owned companies. "This is essential for their sustainability and ability to operate efficiently in a competitive business environment," he noted.

The roundtable discussion also featured contributions from other esteemed speakers, including Wing Commander Mohammed Mamu and Managing Partner of Anaebonam Ken & Co, Christopher Ekwozor. They shared their expertise on various aspects of operational best practices, including financial management, corporate governance, and risk management.

The event was attended by a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Finance, senior officers from the Nigerian Air Force, and board members of various government-owned companies. The Comptroller-General of Customs was accompanied by his management team, including the NCS Director of Legal Services, Smart Akande, Esq.

In his vote of thanks, Smart Akande commended CGC Adeniyi and his management team for spearheading the initiative. He also appreciated the esteemed speakers and attendees for their invaluable insights and contributions. "Your perspectives have enriched our understanding of operational best practices for government-owned companies," he stated.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening governance, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring government-owned enterprises remain viable contributors to national economic growth. The Nigeria Customs Service has demonstrated its leadership in promoting best practices in governance and operations, and this initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the management of government-owned companies in Nigeria.