Collaborative Partnerships Key to Economic Growth — BAT Nigeria
Hasnain Ishtiaq, Operations Director of British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria, has emphasized the transformative role of collaborative partnerships in driving Nigeria’s economic progress.
Speaking at the 2024 Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Conference held from November 12 to 15 in Abuja, Ishtiaq participated in a panel discussion titled “Leveraging Partnerships for Economic Development.” The event brought together a diverse mix of industry leaders, policymakers, and government representatives under the theme, “Nigeria Customs Service: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose.”
Unlocking Economic Potential
Ishtiaq underscored the importance of building strong, mutually beneficial relationships between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and its various partners. Drawing on his extensive experience in the manufacturing industry, he highlighted how partnerships among government entities, private sector players, and other stakeholders can unlock new opportunities for growth, improve operational efficiency, and enhance compliance.
“Collaborative efforts streamline processes, secure revenue, and foster sustainable economic development,” he said.
Combating Illicit Trade
A major focus of the discussion was the impact of illicit trade on Nigeria’s economy and legitimate businesses. Ishtiaq stressed the importance of intelligence-sharing initiatives between the manufacturing sector and the Customs Service to curb smuggling and protect local markets.
“By sharing intelligence on illicit product movements, we can collectively support legal players and foster a thriving, fair market environment,” he stated.
Ishtiaq reaffirmed BAT’s commitment to partnering with Customs to combat smuggling, share vital intelligence, and promote the growth of the legal market.
“Our shared goal is to create an environment where legitimate players can thrive, securing revenue for the nation and laying a foundation for sustainable growth that benefits all.”
BAT’s Commitment to Nigeria
Highlighting BAT’s long-standing dedication to Nigeria’s economic development, Ishtiaq noted the company’s contributions to the manufacturing sector. BAT has been in operation for over a century, with a presence in more than 150 countries.
BAT Nigeria’s $185 million state-of-the-art factory serves as a hub for exports to 13 West African nations and the United States, showcasing the company’s investment in the country’s future.
A Platform for Progress
The CGC Conference 2024 provided a robust platform for exchanging ideas, exploring innovative solutions, and forging meaningful connections between stakeholders.
Ishtiaq commended the conference’s role in fostering critical discourse, which he believes is essential for driving Nigeria’s economic growth and addressing challenges such as regional inequality and illicit trade.
The event reinforced the value of collaboration in achieving shared goals, ensuring sustainable economic prosperity, and securing a brighter future for Nigeria.
