Tunde Bakare
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Friday, 13 September 2024, decorated seven members of his management team with their new ranks at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja, amidst calls to redouble their commitment and dedication to the success of the service.
Recall that the Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) announced the confirmation of the new appointees on Tuesday, 10 September 2024, during its 60th Regular Meeting at the new NCS Corporate Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
Addressing the newly decorated officers shortly after the ceremony, which took place inside the CGC’s Conference Hall, the CGC congratulated them and urged them to double their devotion, determination, and loyalty to advance the Nigeria Customs Service.
He said, “Today, this promotion signifies the realisation of another milestone set by the Nigeria Customs Service. It comes at a time when we have witnessed a significant turnover in the management team, with over ten members leaving office.
“This indicates that the Service is undergoing a transition from one generation of officers to another. To the younger generations of officers, I want to assure you that there is no cause for alarm, for a number of reasons.”
According to , their appointment and approval followed the due process of the Federal Character principles. “Most importantly, their appointments were based on their exemplary dedication and commitment to the service. Therefore, I encourage you to continue these virtues; exemplary conduct is expected from all of you.”
While urging them to intensify their contributions to the fight against smuggling, revenue generation, and trade facilitation, CGC Adeniyi also enjoined the new heads of departments to ensure they share a common vision for fulfilling their departmental mandates.
He stated, “I must emphasise, as usual, that your placement in the service requires your utmost discipline at all times. You must conduct yourselves in a manner that sets a good example for the officers behind you.”
Speaking on behalf of the decorated officers, DCG Adeogun Alajogun, who has been deployed to the Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation Department, thanked the CGC for his fairness and assured him of their unwavering commitment and dedication to protecting the Service’s reputation.
“On behalf of my colleagues who have just been elevated, I want to thank God Almighty for making this day possible. Thank you to the CGC for recognising us with these appointments to our various ranks,” DCG Alajogun said.
He emphasised that, “In light of this, on behalf of myself and all the newly elevated colleagues, we pledge our undivided loyalty, unwavering commitment to duty, and unparalleled dedication to service.”
The newly decorated officers are: Deputy Comptroller-Generals of Customs (DCGs) – Olaniyi Alajogun and Kikelomo Adeola, while the Assistant Comptroller-Generals are Isa Umar, Tilley-Gyado, Bamidele Makinde, OA Salefu, and Timi Bomodi.