National President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mansur Ahmed,has asked the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) for assistance in resolving difficulties faced during import and export operations.
Ahmed believes the step will boost the country’s export products’ competitiveness.
This was revealed by the MAN President during a visit to the Customs headquarters in Abuja.
Mr. Ahmed expressed regret that the country is going through a tough period, saying that collaboration between the two agencies might assist overcome challenges in the manufacturing business.
He said “to invigorate the existing relationship between the two institutions, there must be a mutual understanding.
“The NCS can be a great deal in helping the manufacturing sector to build resilience against exports and importation difficulties as we have witnessed in the last few years.
“We need the efficient support, understanding in the cooperation of the NCS always as this meeting is a great deal to help boost the manufacturing industry.”
The MAN president emphasised the importance of NCS support in reducing cost of operations by improvements in airport and seaports.
He added that manufacturers also need the help and support of the service in promoting export on manufactured goods and services.
Ahmed lamented the scarcity of foreign exchange which he explained is a threat to manufacturers in the country.
The Controller General of Customs, Hameed Ali, expressed optimism that his management team would ensure that issues raised by manufacturers are addressed.
“Our hopes are on the manufacturing sector to be able to establish that robust system and move forward.
“As a government agency, I know you believe we have a role to play in supporting you to establish that resilience and to move forward in reassuring the economy’s duty,”Ali said.
