The Nigeria Customs Service( NCS) has begun the process of digitalizing revenue collection and remittances using Artificial intelligence (AI )platform to enhance transparency in its operations.
The Service had previously, adopted scanners that are AI enabled. The scanners aid Lead Image Analysts to predict types of objects to be considered .
The AI has been put into use across other non-interesting spaces . Comptroller General of Customs Dr Wale Adeniyi disclosed Service’s shift to AI on Monday in Abuja during a three day training on AI- powered revenue generation, remittances and reconciliation for the Service officials.
He said technology plays a crucial and critical role in service delivery of the Customs.
“Before now, we have also made extensive use of AI in the non-interesting space. Now we have scanners that are AI enabled that can actually lead image analysts to predict the kind of objects that may be considered.
“We are therefore delighted about the involvement of AI revenue generation, issue of remittances, and reconciliation for Nigeria Customs Service.
“We are delighted by the potential and the benefits that technology through AI can give to us.
“We are also trusting our service providers that they have the capacity to share this knowledge with us. But as stated earlier, revenue generation, remittances, and reconciliation has a long value chain.
“Today marks a significant step in our collective journey towards strengthening transparency, efficiency and accountability in the public revenue management.
“Your presence here, particularly our distinguished legislators and critical stakeholders in revenue oversight and fiscal governance underscores the importance of this initiative and reflects our shared commitment to national development”.
Adeniyi disclosed that customs consistently played a pivotal role in revenue generation for the Nigerian government.
However, he said as global trade evolves and financial systems become increasingly complex, “it is imperative that we embrace an innovative technology to enhance our operational effectiveness. Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future”
He described AI as a present-day tool that offers unprecedented opportunities to optimize revenue processes, minimize leakages, improve remittance accuracy and ensure seamless reconciliation.
“This training is designed to equip our officers and stakeholders with the knowledge, tools and strategic insights required to harness AI-driven solutions in addressing existing gaps within our revenue chain.
*From automated data analysis to predictive intelligence and real-time reconciliation systems, AI presents us with the capability to transform how we manage and safeguard public funds”, he added.
In a good will message, House of Representatives Committee Chairman ( Public Account) Rep. Bamidele Salam commended Customs for staying above the curve in its operations.
He added his committee never had any issue with the Service because of its high level of compliance..
“I must say that in the last three years, Nigerian Customs Service of all organizations, has actually stood out as one that is reform-minded, that is open to suggestions, and open to innovation.
“Unlike some other Department of Government that may not have applications beyond our national borders, the Customs Service is a global organization. You are an organization that is replicated in every country of the world.
“And so we also believe that you have the power of using that organization to promote the national image of Nigeria, to also enhance global diplomacy.
“The only way you can successfully do that is if you improve on your processes and your system and your structure, in a manner that is globally compliant.
“And I want to commend you, Comptroller General, for the things that you have done in the last three years to raise the bar of the operation of the Nigerian Customs Service”, he said.