The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has, in conjunction with the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), launched an auspicious scheme aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and creating a more transparent business environment for the Service's stakeholders in trade space, named Advance Ruling.

Speaking at the launching of the project on Thursday in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi described 'Advanced Ruling' as a critical mechanism that allows traders to obtain binding decisions from Customs administrations on the classification, origin, and valuation of goods before importation.

Galaxy TV reports that Adeniyi while appreciating the stakeholders and partners for gracing the event, emphasized that the launched project will also serve as a tool for reducing compliance costs and fostering a conducive business environment for traders.

The CGC, who recognized the significance of the project, as it aligns with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), also emphasized its relevance in facilitating both domestic and international trade while also promoting Customs compliance.

Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for laying the ground to enhance the economy of Nigeria and supporting the Service, CGC Adeniyi emphasized that the launch of Advanced Ruling at this time aligns with the policy directive of President Tinubu's administration to facilitate trade for legitimate traders.
He maintained that this has reflected in the Policy Advisory Document of the government, which signifies recent achievements, such as the approval to decongest the ports and make them free and accessible for importers and operators.

As the Comptroller-General of Customs championed the laying of a foundation for Advance Ruling to enhance trade in Nigeria, he revealed that the Service has made all arrangements to conduct workshops and sensitization sessions at Customs Area Commands to ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed and prepared to utilize this new mechanism effectively.

He, however, applauded the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and other partners for their unwavering partnership and continued support of achieving a significant milestone in trade facilitation activities under the Nigeria Energy Support Programme..