BY FRONTLINE REPORTERS
The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced a two-day capacity-building programme for journalists aimed at deepening media understanding of its Trade Modernisation Project (TMP).
The training, themed “Enhancing Media Knowledge, Awareness and Understanding of Customs Modernisation,” was organised in collaboration with Trade Modernisation Project Limited, the concessionaire handling the initiative.
The TMP is a 20-year concession agreement signed on May 30, 2022, between the Federal Government and Trade Modernisation Project Ltd to automate and modernise Customs operations across Nigeria.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the workshop was designed to equip journalists with adequate knowledge of ongoing reforms within the service and improve the quality of reportage on Customs activities.
Represented by Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation, Timi Bomodi, the Customs boss noted that the evolving global trade environment had made reforms and innovation imperative.
According to him, the Trade Modernisation Project is a technology-driven initiative aimed at eliminating operational inefficiencies, simplifying Customs procedures and creating a more predictable trading environment for stakeholders.
Adeniyi stressed that beyond technology and infrastructure, stakeholder understanding and participation remain critical to the success of the reform programme, describing the media as an indispensable partner in shaping public perception and promoting informed discourse.
He added that the workshop would provide participants with deeper insights into the objectives, operational framework and expected economic impact of the project, while enhancing factual and balanced reporting on Customs modernisation efforts.
The TMP is designed to automate Customs business processes and improve efficiency for operators across the trade value chain.
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