Uche Cecil Izuora
The Renaissance Africa Energy Limited and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have expressed collaborative interest as part of efforts to promote legitimate trade, attract investment and support growth in Nigeria’s energy sector.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, offered NCS commitment to boost the cooperation when the management of Renaissance Africa Energy Limited, led by its Vice President, Production, Meshack Maichibi, paid a courtesy visit to him in Abuja.
Adeniyi congratulated the company on its successful corporate transition following its takeover of Shell Petroleum Development Company’s onshore assets and described the development as proof that Nigerian firms are capable of managing and expanding strategic national assets. He said the Customs Service remained committed to creating a business-friendly environment for compliant companies, stressing that ongoing reforms under the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) are making it easier for businesses to operate in Nigeria.
According to him, the Service is focused on facilitating legitimate trade rather than creating unnecessary obstacles for investors.
“There is a misconception in some quarters that Customs exists to frustrate businesses. That is not who we are. When legitimate businesses grow, Customs also grows. Our responsibility is to facilitate lawful trade while carrying out our statutory mandate,” Adeniyi said.
The Customs boss encouraged Renaissance Africa Energy to complete the requirements for the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, noting that although the certification process is demanding, it provides significant benefits for companies with strong compliance records.
He assured the company that Customs would continue to remove legitimate trade bottlenecks and provide all lawful support needed for businesses that meet regulatory requirements.
Speaking during the visit, Renaissance Africa Energy’s Vice President, Production, Meshack Maichibi, said the company officially assumed operations in March 2026 after acquiring Shell Petroleum Development Company’s onshore assets.
He explained that Renaissance is pursuing a long-term strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s energy security through investments across the upstream, midstream and downstream segments of the oil and gas industry.Maichibi noted that sustained collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service would play a key role in helping the company achieve its production and investment targets.
“The support we receive from the Nigeria Customs Service is exceptional.
The speed of approvals, professionalism of officers, transparent procedures, and digitalised processes strengthen our operations. We maintain zero tolerance for duty evasion and look forward to sustained collaboration with Customs across all Commands as we work towards achieving our vision,” he said.
Members of the Renaissance delegation also praised the Customs Service for its trade facilitation reforms, describing the Authorised Economic Operator certification process as transparent, rigorous and efficient.
They said improved digital systems, regular engagement with Customs officers and operational support across Commands have enhanced compliance, improved efficiency and increased investor confidence in Nigeria’s evolving trade environment