Uche Cecil Izuora
Nigerian Maritime journalists under the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) have honoured the outgoing Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, for his outstanding leadership, professionalism and contributions to the fight against smuggling.
The journalists, who paid a farewell visit to Aliyu in his office in Lagos on Wednesday, described him as a media-friendly Customs officer who distinguished himself through integrity, accessibility and intelligence-driven anti-smuggling operations.
Speaking during the event, Aliyu disclosed that the FOU Zone ‘A’ had generated and recovered more than ₦2 billion for the Federation Account over the last nine months. According to him, the amount represents about five times the Unit’s annual revenue target.
He also revealed that the Unit intercepted more than 21,000 bags of smuggled rice, equivalent to approximately 35 truckloads, during the period under review, alongside illicit drugs and other prohibited items.
Aliyu attributed the achievements to the commitment of his officers and the support of the Customs management, stressing that the Unit’s operations were increasingly driven by intelligence. “Our approach to tackling smuggling has been deliberate and targeted, relying heavily on intelligence-driven operations rather than random actions,” he said.
The outgoing Controller also emphasised the importance of media support in the fight against smuggling and other forms of economic crime. “We view journalists as strategic partners and critical allies in our fight against crime and smuggling—a challenge no single agency can tackle alone,” he said.
Aliyu added that while the Service was doing everything possible to suppress smuggling, the collaboration of strategic partners, particularly the media, remained essential to achieving lasting success. “On a personal note, as a former member of the press, I am incredibly proud to stand alongside you,” he said.
During the farewell celebration, the maritime journalists presented Aliyu with a token of appreciation in recognition of his leadership and strong relationship with the media.
Chairman of NNMJ, Elder Dele Aderibigbe, said the gathering was unusual because journalists were not at the Unit to cover an event but had deliberately come together to celebrate a Customs officer they regarded as a friend and professional partner. “Controller Gambo Aliyu, we came here today just to say that we are incredibly proud of you,” Aderibigbe said.
He described journalists as watchdogs of society, noting that their responsibility sometimes makes stakeholders uncomfortable, but stressed that their ultimate commitment remained the truth. According to him, Aliyu had distinguished himself sufficiently to earn the respect and appreciation of maritime journalists.
“Today, you wear the uniform, and journalists celebrate your achievements. Tomorrow, you may transition to civil life in Abuja. Please hold fast to your convictions, sir. Remember that your most loyal allies—those who will never fail you—are the dedicated men and women of the press,” Aderibigbe said.
He urged other Customs officers to emulate Aliyu’s leadership qualities and commitment to duty.
Also speaking, Chairman of the NNMJ Advisory Board, Sesan Onileimo, reaffirmed the journalists’ appreciation of Aliyu, describing him as a man who keeps his word.
Onileimo recalled an encounter with the Controller in December, when Aliyu made a commitment which he subsequently fulfilled. “I left and told my colleagues not to worry because we were in safe hands. I want to sincerely thank you for what you have done,” he said.
He said keeping promises despite challenges was a demonstration of integrity, adding that Aliyu had built a strong relationship with maritime journalists. “If 200 journalists in Lagos can say, ‘Controller Gambo is our friend,’ what more proof do you need?” Onileimo asked.
He said the journalists came not to seek favours but to acknowledge an officer whose conduct had earned their respect. “From what we have as journalists, we brought a small token of appreciation. Thank you for being a true friend to the media and for always keeping your word.”