Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has commended British American Tobacco, BAT for its regulatory compliance, job creation and contribution to government revenue, urging other investors to emulate the company’s business model.
Adeniyi gave the commendation on Monday, September 14, 2026, during a visit to the BAT manufacturing factory in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he described the facility as an example of the type of investment needed to support Nigeria’s economic diversification.
“As a customs officer, I cannot but notice the high level of commitment to compliance. So I’m indeed very, very grateful. And I would say that this is one investment that Nigeria got right, and I wish we could have so many companies giving this kind of opportunity and giving back this much to Nigeria,” he said.
The CGC said BAT contributes to government revenue through multiple channels, including customs duties on imports and excise duties on goods manufactured locally.
He also noted the company’s role in creating jobs and supporting local agriculture, saying such investments could contribute to broader economic development.
Adeniyi linked the visit to the Federal Government’s drive to build a non-oil, export-led economy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the Nigeria Customs Service had repositioned itself to support the policy.
“We have established a terminal, a command that is specifically looking after issues of exports. So that’s the only thing they do in that particular command in Lagos. We have a number of exports processing terminals in and around Lagos that are tied to that command where exports are being processed,” he said.
The Customs boss urged other investors to take a cue from BAT by maintaining high standards of compliance and integrity while contributing to the communities where they operate.
“In terms of size, this is probably the biggest in terms of size of operation in Africa. So we invite other investors; they should take their cue from here. And as we invite them, we’re also asking them to play according to the rules, the way BAT is doing it, a company that is committed to a high level of compliance, a high level of integrity in their operations, and making a significant impact in the society where they serve,” Adeniyi said.
He said adherence to regulatory requirements and responsible investment would create a “win-win situation” for businesses and Nigeria through increased investment, government revenue, employment opportunities and wider economic benefits.
During the visit, Adeniyi also participated in a tree-planting exercise as part of BAT’s environmental sustainability initiative and toured the manufacturing facility.