Nigeria Customs Launches Renewable Energy Handbook, Deepens EU-Germany-GIZ Collaboration
Kathy Kyari
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially unveiled a Handbook on Import and Export Procedures for Renewable Energy Equipment, reinforcing its commitment to supporting responsible trade and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector.
The launch which took place on Monday, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, marked the result of a collaborative effort between the NCS, the European Union (EU), the German Embassy, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
The project was designed to streamline customs procedures for renewable energy equipment and aligns with Nigeria’s national energy transition agenda.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of the new handbook, describing it as a “living document” that will be regularly updated to reflect technological advancements, global best practices, and evolving government policies.
“With Nigeria’s increasing investment in renewable energy infrastructure, Customs has a responsibility to ensure that legitimate trade in this sector is facilitated efficiently and securely,” he said. “This handbook addresses past classification and clearance challenges, offering clarity to importers, exporters, and officers.”
Adeniyi explained that the initiative also supports the Federal Government’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which targets net-zero emissions by 2060 while expanding access to energy for millions of citizens.
He commended the technical and financial backing from the EU, German government, and GIZ, noting that their involvement exemplifies strong institutional synergy.
“This is more than a Customs document; it’s a strategic tool for economic transformation,” the CGC added.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria, praised the NCS for its proactive reforms and its role in promoting sustainable trade.
“We are especially encouraged by the rising involvement of women in the Nigeria Customs Service, a sign of inclusiveness that strengthens institutional resilience,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Karin Jansen, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, reaffirmed Germany’s interest in enhancing bilateral cooperation with Nigeria, especially in the areas of green energy and trade facilitation.
Marcus Wagner, Country Director of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, congratulated the CGC on his recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, stating:
“That appointment is not only a personal achievement but a global recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership in Customs modernisation and reform.”
The handbook provides practical guidance on procedures, documentation, tariff classifications, exemptions, and valuation for renewable energy components such as solar panels, inverters, wind turbines, and batteries. It is expected to serve as a critical reference for customs officers, importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and clean energy stakeholders.
The initiative is also in line with international climate and trade commitments, including the Paris Agreement and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in sustainable trade and logistics.
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