By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to facilitating responsible trade and improving compliance in the renewable energy sector, following the formal launch of a new Handbook on Import and Export Procedures for Renewable Energy Equipment.
The event, which held on Monday, 29 July 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, marked the culmination of a collaborative initiative between the NCS, the European Union (EU), the German Embassy, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The initiative aims to simplify Customs processes related to the import and export of renewable energy equipment, in line with Nigeria’s national energy transition goals.
The CGC described the handbook as a “living document” that will be regularly updated to reflect evolving technologies, international best practices, and government policies.
“With Nigeria’s increasing investment in renewable energy infrastructure, Customs has a responsibility to ensure that legitimate trade in this sector is facilitated efficiently and securely,” Adeniyi said. “This handbook addresses past classification and clearance challenges, offering clarity to importers, exporters, and officers.”
He noted that the move also supports the Federal Government’s broader objectives under the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which seeks to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 while improving energy access for millions of Nigerians.
The CGC further acknowledged the technical and financial support of international partners, describing the collaboration as a “model of institutional synergy that benefits both trade and the environment.”
Customs Boss reiterated the Service’s readiness to embrace reforms that foster transparency, stimulate investment, and support national development priorities.
“This is more than a Customs document; it’s a strategic tool for economic transformation,” he concluded.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria, applauded the Service’s dedication to reforms and compliance. She stated that the EU was proud to support Customs in promoting sustainable trade and circular economy principles.
“We are especially encouraged by the rising involvement of women in the Nigeria Customs Service, a sign of inclusiveness that strengthens institutional resilience,” she added.
Also speaking, Karin Jansen, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, highlighted Germany’s continued interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in areas of green energy and trade facilitation.
Marcus Wagner, Country Director of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, praised the CGC’s leadership and extended congratulations on his recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.
“That appointment is not only a personal achievement but a global recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership in Customs modernisation and reform,” he remarked.
The new handbook is expected to serve as a vital reference for Customs officers, freight forwarders, renewable energy companies, and other stakeholders operating across Nigeria’s borders. It provides step-by-step guidance on documentation, tariff classifications, exemptions, valuation, and procedures specific to solar panels, batteries, inverters, wind turbines, and other clean energy components.
The initiative aligns with global commitments such as the Paris Agreement and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning Nigeria as a regional hub for green trade and sustainable logistics.
