Nigeria Customs and BAT Nigeria Forge Alliance Against Tobacco Smuggling

In a significant move to curb illicit tobacco trade, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership is designed to deepen collaboration between the two organizations, bolster regulatory compliance, and safeguard legitimate business investments within Nigeria.

The agreement, formalized at the NCS headquarters in Abuja, represents a milestone in their relationship. It underscores a mutual dedication to protecting lawful commerce while confronting the escalating threat posed by illegal tobacco products. The NCS views this as a strategic framework to strengthen cooperation against illegal cross-border trade and ensure greater adherence to regulations throughout the tobacco value chain.

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We feel delighted that we have been able to sign this instrument, which will provide an effective framework to deepen collaboration between our two organisations. I would like to assure you that we will remain committed to both the spirit and the letter of this MOU and ensure that we wipe out illegal cross-border movements of products within the Nigerian territory.

Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs, highlighted the MOU's importance in sending a strong message to both domestic and international investors about Nigeria's commitment to protecting legitimate businesses. He acknowledged that illicit trade globally undermines government revenues, distorts markets, and creates unfair competition for compliant businesses. Adeniyi emphasized that combating smuggling is crucial for Nigeria as it seeks to boost domestic revenue, enhance border security, and promote sustainable economic growth.

Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director of BAT Nigeria, described the MOU as a landmark development reflecting the robust relationship between BATN and the NCS. He stressed that effective public-private sector cooperation is vital for protecting legitimate commerce, supporting compliance, and cultivating a business environment where responsible companies can thrive. Both organizations have pledged to uphold the spirit and letter of the agreement, aiming to eradicate illegal cross-border product movements within Nigerian territory.

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This relationship represents an important step in strengthening collaboration between BAT Nigeria and the NCS in addressing illicit trade. We believe that effective public-private sector cooperation is critical to protecting legitimate commerce, supporting regulatory compliance, and fostering a business environment where responsible businesses can thrive.