Credible Data: Solution for Border Porosity, Trade Crisis By Abdulsalam Mahmud
As part of efforts to modernize its operations, the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, recently organized a three-day workshop focused on data generation, analytics and storage.
Held at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College (NCCSC) in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, the workshop aimed to bolster the service’s capabilities in handling data effectively, with a view to enhancing border security and trade facilitation.
At the workshop, ACG Malanta Yusuf, represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. Yusuf underscored the pivotal role of data in strategic planning and operational efficiency, while giving the remark of CGC Adeniyi.
He emphasized that robust data generation and analytics are indispensable for informed decision-making, particularly in organizations tasked with border management and trade regulation.
“This workshop is designed to equip officers with comprehensive knowledge in various aspects of data management,” ACG Yusuf noted.
One of the highlights of the workshop was the emphasis on innovative solutions and the integration of geospatial intelligence into data analysis practices. ACG Yusuf urged officers to embrace these cutting-edge approaches, recognizing their potential to revolutionize customs operations.
As a capacity-building forum, the workshop, attended by customs officers from various ranks, offered a blend of theoretical insights with hands-on training sessions. Also, participants (at the workshop) delved into topics ranging from data collection methodologies to advanced analytics techniques.
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Again, practical exercises at the workshop enabled attendees to apply newly-acquired skills in real-world scenarios. At the end of the day, participants enhanced their ability to detect smuggling networks, identify high-risk threats, and gather intelligence effectively.
In terms of value, one can safely conclude that the significance of the workshop extended beyond skill development, to the fostering of a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the NCS.
It is pertinent to also mention that the Nigeria Customs is setting a precedent for other border control agencies across the globe, by prioritizing data management and analytics. The NCS appears to be forward thinking, too.
In an era marked by increasingly complex challenges such as transnational crime and global supply chain disruptions, the ability to harness data effectively becomes a strategic imperative.
It should therefore, ensure that the data harnessed for its operations are reliable and qualitative. Furthermore, the workshop underscores Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to tackle her border security challenges.
As a key player in regional trade and commerce, Nigeria recognizes the importance of ensuring the integrity of its borders, while facilitating legitimate cross-border movements. To this end, Nigeria will be positioning itself as a proactive participant in the global effort to combat illicit trade and safeguard supply chains, when its data capabilities are strengthened.
Meanwhile, the insights gained from the workshop will greatly boost customs activities and enhance border management. But that is not all. They also have broader implications for national security, economic development, and international cooperation.
While the success of the workshop (in focus) will serve as a springboard for future initiatives (aimed at enhancing customs operations), continuous training and capacity building of Customs officers are also essential.
They are central to the successful implementation of the NCS’s operational strategies, with regards to border policing and trade facilitation.
*Mahmud, the Deputy Editor of PRNigeria, is reachable via: [email protected].*
