The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the World Customs Organisation (WCO), has launched a workshop on “Gender Diversity” at the Old Federal Secretariat in Garki, Abuja.
The workshop reaffirmed the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Adewale Adeniyi, to create a work environment where every officer is empowered to thrive, irrespective of gender.
The workshop, which commenced on Monday, was officially declared open by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs for Tariff and Trade, DCG Caroline Niagwan, represented by the National Contact Point, Chief Superintendent of Customs Zara Musa.
Addressing attendees, CSC Musa underscored the importance of the workshop in fostering a workplace that will offer every Customs officer equal opportunities for growth and success.
CSC Musa stated: “This workshop will pave the way for officers to contribute fully to the Service’s success, regardless of gender. CGC Adeniyi remains committed to nurturing a gender-inclusive environment within the NCS.”
It is worth noting that the workshop followed a previous capacity-building session hosted by the NCS in April 2024 on gender inclusivity at Wells Carlston Apartments, Abuja.
The National Contact Point added: “These initiatives form a series of efforts under CGC Adeniyi’s tenure aimed at advancing gender equality across the Service, promoting a culture where diverse perspectives contribute to enhanced Customs operations.”
Jennifer Goistene Burs, a resource person with the WCO from Botswana, addressed participants, highlighting the strategic impact of gender inclusivity on service delivery.
“We are committed to supporting the NCS in finalising the draft action plan on Gender Equality and Diversity (GED), which was developed following the sub-regional workshop organised in April,” she said.
Burs noted that the implementation of this action plan would be instrumental in embedding diversity within the Service’s operations.
Others experts present at the workshop included Sendra Chihaka from Zimbabwe and Johanna Tornstrom, both of whom contributed insights on strategies for fostering a workplace culture that values and supports the contributions of all officers.
