Conference summary

The Nigerian Trade Information Portal, in partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service, recently convened the Digital Customs Compliance Training, an intensive knowledge-sharing event designed to empower stakeholders across Nigeria's trade ecosystem. The training was part of the Federal Government's broader initiative to modernize trade processes and strengthen compliance with international best practices. Participants included importers, exporters, logistics operators, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and representatives from relevant government agencies, creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

At the heart of the training was a deliberate focus on digital transformation within customs operations. Facilitators introduced participants to a wide range of tools and digital platforms that are now central to customs procedures in Nigeria. These included electronic filing systems, online documentation processes, and updated compliance checklists accessible through the Nigerian Trade Information Portal. By providing step-by-step demonstrations of these tools, the program sought to reduce the knowledge gap and enable stakeholders to carry out customs-related tasks with greater efficiency, transparency, and accuracy.

The sessions were structured to combine expert-led presentations with interactive discussions, ensuring that participants were not only learning theory but also engaging with practical, real-life scenarios. Attendees were able to share personal experiences, challenges, and insights regarding their previous encounters with customs processes. This created a collaborative atmosphere where issues such as delays, documentation errors, and the costs of non-compliance were openly discussed. Customs officials, acting as facilitators, responded to questions and clarified common misconceptions, giving participants a rare opportunity to engage directly with regulators in an open and constructive manner.

A significant portion of the training was dedicated to recent regulatory updates, including adjustments in import and export procedures, duty calculation frameworks, and requirements for electronic submissions. These updates were contextualized within Nigeria's broader economic strategy and its commitment to aligning with global trade standards under agreements such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By walking participants through the implications of these changes, facilitators underscored the importance of businesses staying informed and compliant to avoid penalties, delays, or disruptions in their operations.

Feedback from the training indicated that participants gained not only technical knowledge but also renewed confidence in managing their trade obligations digitally. Many highlighted the value of learning directly from customs experts, as well as the opportunity to network with peers facing similar challenges in the trade ecosystem. For small and medium-sized enterprises, in particular, the training was described as a timely intervention that would help them adapt more quickly to a digital-first approach in customs compliance. The exchange of experiences fostered a sense of shared responsibility and partnership between government agencies and the private sector.

The Digital Customs Compliance Training stands as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government's commitment to building a modern, transparent, and business-friendly trade environment. By investing in the capacity of stakeholders and encouraging the adoption of digital solutions, Nigeria continues to position itself as a competitive player in regional and global trade. Plans are already underway for additional sessions to be held across different regions of the country, ensuring that more stakeholders are reached and no business is left behind in the transition to digital customs compliance.