By Mariama Bundu
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has called for stronger trade and border cooperation within the ECOWAS region while addressing the 32nd Conference of Directors General of Customs of the World Customs Organization (WCO) for the West and Central Africa Region in Freetown.
Speaking at the Freetown International Conference Centre, President Bio emphasized the importance of effective customs administration in protecting national security, supporting economic growth, and facilitating lawful trade across West Africa.
Delivering the keynote address on the theme, “A Customs Service that Protects Society Through Its Vigilance and Commitment,” the President described customs officers as the frontline defenders of the state.
He noted that customs services play a vital role in preventing the smuggling of illegal weapons, counterfeit medicines, narcotics, and other illicit goods that threaten communities and economies across the region.
President Bio also stressed the need for modern customs systems through digital transformation, including automation, electronic payment systems, cargo tracking, and advanced data management to improve efficiency and reduce corruption.
As Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, he called for stronger regional cooperation and intelligence sharing to tackle cross-border crime and emerging security threats.
The conference brought together customs leaders, policymakers, and international partners to discuss ways of strengthening border security and improving trade facilitation in West and Central Africa.
