By Ayomide Otitoju
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to facilitating legitimate trade and supporting compliant businesses, assuring Renaissance Africa Energy Limited of continued partnership in promoting investment, energy security and economic growth.
Adeniyi gave the assurance on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, when the management of Renaissance Africa Energy Limited, led by its Vice President, Production, Meshack Maichibi, visited the NCS headquarters in Abuja.
While congratulating Renaissance Africa Energy on completing its corporate transition, the Customs boss said the development reflects the ability of Nigerians to manage and expand strategic national assets.
He stressed that the role of the Customs Service is not to hinder businesses but to support lawful trade while enforcing regulatory requirements, adding that reforms under the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) are improving Nigeria’s business climate.
“There is a misconception in some quarters that Customs exists to frustrate businesses. That is not who we are. When legitimate businesses grow, Customs also grows. Our responsibility is to facilitate lawful trade while carrying out our statutory mandate,” Adeniyi said.
The CGC also encouraged Renaissance Africa Energy to complete the requirements for the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, noting that the initiative provides benefits for compliant businesses despite its rigorous qualification process.
He assured the company that the Service would continue to address trade barriers and provide necessary support to businesses that comply with regulations.
Earlier, Maichibi said Renaissance Africa Energy commenced operations in March 2026 following its acquisition of the onshore assets of Shell Petroleum Development Company.
He said the company is focused on strengthening energy security through investments across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry, while highlighting the importance of collaboration with Customs in achieving its goals.
“The support we receive from the Nigeria Customs Service is exceptional. The speed of approvals, professionalism of officers, transparent procedures, and digitalised processes strengthen our operations,” Maichibi said.
Members of the Renaissance delegation also praised the Customs Service’s trade facilitation reforms, describing the AEO certification process as transparent and efficient.
They said improved digital systems, continuous engagement and operational support from Customs officers have enhanced compliance and strengthened confidence in Nigeria’s evolving trade environment.
