The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to operational excellence by hosting a high-level roundtable discussion on best practices for government-owned companies.
The event, held at the NCS headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from the military, paramilitary, and financial sectors to explore strategies for improving efficiency and corporate governance.
The one-day forum was attended by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, alongside his management team, representatives from the Ministry of Finance, senior officers from the Nigerian Air Force, and board members of various government-owned enterprises.
In his keynote address, Adeniyi highlighted the critical role of corporate governance, financial autonomy, and operational efficiency in managing government-owned enterprises, particularly those within military and paramilitary organisations.
He noted that the Nigeria Customs Service operates four companies, all of which contribute significantly to economic growth, job creation, and service delivery.
“We are here today to assess the operational structures, corporate governance, and financial realities of these companies. By sharing experiences and identifying challenges, we can develop solutions that will drive growth and efficiency,” Adeniyi stated.
Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar (rtd) provided an overview of military-owned companies, detailing their evolution and strategic importance.
He cited the Engineering and Technical Services Limited as a pioneering example, 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, addressed the complexities of balancing government oversight with business autonomy. “Understanding the legal and structural frameworks of such companies is essential for their sustainability,” he remarked.
The discussions were particularly timely, given the ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency and profitability of government-owned enterprises while ensuring alignment with broader governance structures. The event fostered collaboration between security agencies and business entities, setting the stage for improved operational standards.
The roundtable concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening governance, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring that government-owned enterprises remain viable contributors to Nigeria’s economic growth.