In an effort to boost international trade and the maritime industry, Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has called on the Federal Government to focus on local vessel production instead of waiting for unavailable foreign vessels.
Adeniyi made this statement 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) in Lagos.
Representing Adeniyi at the event was Comptroller Dera Nnadi, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Tin Can Island Port Customs command. He emphasized the need to provide necessary support for vessel construction in the country.
The Customs boss highlighted that vessels are essential for effective and efficient international trade.
He mentioned that Customs introduced barge operations as a means of facilitating cargo movement in the maritime industry, which later became a significant investment.
To support and sustain this initiative, it is crucial to encourage the construction of smaller and local vessels, particularly now that the President has shown support for it.
Adeniyi stated, “We should look inwards, especially during this time when resources are scarce. Mr. President encourages us to promote homegrown technology for progress. We must appreciate locally constructed vessels. We don’t need to wait for larger vessels before utilizing our expertise. We can start with smaller ones, the low-hanging fruits.”
