Keynote Address by the National Security Coordinator, Abdulai Caulker, on the Occasion of the 2025 International Customs Day – Monday, January 27, 2025
Keynote Address by the National Security Coordinator, Abdulai Caulker, on the Occasion of the 2025 International Customs Day – Monday, January 27, 2025
Mr. Chairman, Honourable Ministers of Government, the Board Chair, Members of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) Board, the Commissioner-General of the NRA, the Commissioner of Customs, Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Representatives of International Organizations, Members of the Press, Esteemed Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good morning.
It is with immense honour and a deep sense of privilege that I address this esteemed gathering as we celebrate International Customs Day 2025. This year’s theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” encapsulates our shared ambition to establish a foundation for sustainable development, reduce poverty, and foster national stability through effective governance and collaborative efforts.
Today’s occasion underscores the critical role Customs plays in global trade, economic growth, and national security. It also highlights the enduring partnership between institutions like the NRA and the broader security framework, reaffirming their vital contributions to economic efficiency, security, and national prosperity.
Mr. Chairman, allow me to begin by extending my heartfelt commendation to the Commissioner-General of the NRA, Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, whose visionary leadership has driven remarkable progress over the past year. Her dedication and strategic foresight have redefined revenue mobilization and fortified our economic resilience.
Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, efficiency is the hallmark of successful Customs administration. Modern Customs must be seen as a proactive and adaptive entity, eager to streamline processes, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance service delivery. Over the years, Sierra Leone’s Customs administration has achieved remarkable milestones that reflect its commitment to this vision.
In June 2018, the Customs Department implemented the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET), aligning national practices with regional standards to foster trade and integration. This was followed by the migration from ASYCUDA++ to ASYCUDA World in January 2019, a significant step towards fully digitizing customs processes. Additionally, in May 2019, the automation of petroleum (wet cargo) processes was introduced, enhancing efficiency in this critical sector.
The roll-out of ASYCUDA World to Bo and Kono in June 2021 further expanded digital access, enabling regional stakeholders to benefit from modernized customs operations. That same year saw the automation of the Duty Waiver Process, ensuring transparency and consistency in granting tax exemptions. Sierra Leone’s Customs also demonstrated technical expertise with the independent configuration of complex finance act policies within ASYCUDA, underscoring the department’s capacity to adapt to sophisticated regulatory requirements.
More recently, in May 2024, Customs successfully migrated from the Harmonized System (HS) 2012 to the Harmonized System (HS) 2022, keeping Sierra Leone abreast with global classification standards for goods. These milestones are not just achievements, but a testament to the unwavering dedication of our Customs officers and the strategic vision of the NRA.
I challenge the NRA to continue embracing innovation by adopting international conventions such as the Arusha Declaration, the Revised Kyoto Convention, and other World Customs Organization (WCO) instruments. These frameworks promote simplified and accelerated customs procedures, reducing inefficiencies and ensuring compliance with international standards. Such measures will enhance Sierra Leone’s competitiveness in regional economic blocs like ECOWAS, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Furthermore, efficiency in customs operations must extend beyond technological advancements. It requires sustained government support to provide the necessary tools, training, and resources that empower Customs officers to fulfill their mandates effectively. A streamlined and predictable customs process will not only facilitate legitimate trade, but also foster transparency and reduce unfair competition.
Ladies and gentlemen, Customs’ role extends beyond revenue collection; it serves as a frontline defence against threats to public safety and national security. As gatekeepers of our borders, Customs administrations are tasked with combating transnational organized crime, smuggling, terrorism, and the proliferation of counterfeit goods. These challenges necessitate vigilance and robust collaboration with other border management stakeholders.
I commend the Customs operations at our official borders for their vigilance in intercepting contraband and prohibited goods, safeguarding our nation and its international reputation. However, the persistent issue of porous borders remains a significant challenge. Strengthened joint operations, intelligence-sharing initiatives, and capacity-building programmes are essential to addressing these vulnerabilities effectively.
In addition, Customs must proactively safeguard intellectual property rights, protect against counterfeit products, and ensure compliance with international trade agreements. By doing so, Customs not only secures the state, but also fosters a business environment conducive to innovation and investment.
Ladies and gentlemen, when Customs achieves efficiency and security, prosperity naturally follows. Customs’ contribution to national revenue is invaluable, providing the government with the resources needed to drive economic development and social progress. The NRA’s impressive revenue mobilization achievements, including a 1.7% increase in 2024, exemplify the transformative impact of an effective Customs administration.
An efficient and secure Customs framework promotes a thriving economy by creating a level playing field for businesses, reducing trade costs, and attracting investment. It enables Sierra Leone to compete effectively in the global market, fostering industrial growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods for its citizens. Customs’ role in guiding compliance and providing training further supports businesses in maximizing their potential and contributing to national development.
As global trade evolves, so do the challenges facing modern Customs administrations. The rise of e-commerce, the complexities of digital transactions, and reluctance in data-sharing pose significant obstacles. To meet these challenges, Customs must adopt sound policies, leverage advanced technologies, and invest in continuous capacity development.
Empowering Customs with the right tools and resources is crucial. This includes enhancing digital reforms, fostering inter-agency collaborations, and promoting a culture of shared responsibility. By addressing these challenges proactively, Customs can remain resilient and adaptable in a dynamic global environment.
In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, as we commemorate International Customs Day 2025, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to the theme of “Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.” Customs must continue to deliver on its mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and societal protection. This requires unwavering dedication, innovation, and collaboration from all stakeholders.
I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of the Customs Department for their impactful role in advancing Sierra Leone’s development. Your dedication and accomplishments highlight our nation’s ability to overcome challenges and unlock growth opportunities. By fostering collaboration and shared responsibility, Customs can remain a key driver of resilience and prosperity. Together, we can build a brighter future for Sierra Leone.