Customs Boss, Adeniyi Advocates for Homegrown Vessel Construction to Boost Economy
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has advocated that Nigeria should focus on construction of local vessels to boost the maritime industry as well as international trade.
He made this call at the Annual Finance Conference organized by the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) in conjunction with the NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) with the theme, “Vessel Acquisition/Construction: Nigerian Banks, Insurance Firms, Government and The Blue Economy” held in Lagos.
Adeniyi, who was represented by Comptroller Dera Nnadi, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Tin Can Island Customs Command, Adeniyi stated that vessel construction requires necessary support in the country.
He emphasized on the importance of vessels in effective and efficient international trade and revealed that the Customs Service introduced barge operations to ease cargo movement, which has now become a significant investment in the maritime industry.
Adeniyi called for the construction of smaller and local vessels, especially with the President’s support for homegrown technology, stressing that Nigeria should look inward, particularly during times of scarce resources, and appreciate locally constructed vessels.
According to the Comptroller General of the NCS, the industry should start with smaller vessels, which he described as “lower hanging fruits,” rather than waiting to build bigger vessels.
He opined that local vessel construction is a strategic move to enhance Nigeria’s maritime industry and international trade, adding that by supporting local vessel construction, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on foreign vessels, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
He highlighted that the move also aligns with the President’s initiative to promote homegrown technology and look inward for solutions.
The maritime industry, he noted, is a critical sector in Nigeria’s economy, while the construction of local vessels can play a significant role in its development.
The Custom Chief affirmed that with the Customs Service’s support, Nigeria can tap into the vast opportunities in the maritime industry, increase its competitiveness, and become a major player in international trade.
