At its coming into being in 1891, Nigeria Customs Service was saddled with the responsibilities of revenue collection, accounting for same and anti-smuggling activities. Today trade facilitation has become a fundamental role, progressively seen by government as an important element of economic policy, with Customs having a unique position within the hub of the international supply chain of goods and services.
Consequently, one of the challenges to Nigeria Customs Service is the proactive management of the seeming contradictory role of ensuring improvements in speedy delivery of services, while maintaining systematic and effective intervention controls, necessary to meet the demands of complex and growing international trade, characterized in recent times by economic crime, money laundering, menace of terrorism, threatening weapons of mass destruction, violation of intellectual property rights, and dumping of toxic and hazardous substances.
It is apparent therefore, that Nigeria Customs Service that has for long been a steward of the nation's trade and border management is not only under pressure like never before, but now has an enlarged role to perform at the highest levels, to facilitate legitimate trade in a global environment harbouring a litany of threats.
To be a leading edge, effective and efficient Customs administration renowned for excellence in service delivery that promotes economic prosperity and national security.
To stimulate Nigeria's economic growth and development through the administration of Customs laws.
Maintaining the right mix of competence, professional and well-trained personnel to carry out all the functions of the service across different operating environments.
Realizing the desired government revenues in fair, equitable, transparent and efficient manner.
Building a world class e-Customs infrastructure that drives simplified and efficient processes.
Promoting voluntary compliance by providing readily accessible information and guidance to all stakeholders.
Active collaboration with partners and stakeholders to ensure national security.