In a recent address during the Passing Out Parade (POP) for 956 General Duty Junior Personnel at the Customs Training College in Goron Dutse, Kano, the Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, emphasized the importance of responsible firearm handling and the maintenance of high standards among newly recruited officers.
The event, which took place on Thursday, September 21, 2023, marked the completion of Basic Course 1/2023 for the recruits and offered valuable insights into the expectations placed upon them by the Nigeria Customs Service.
In his address, the Acting Comptroller-General congratulated the new officers on their graduation and called upon them to serve as exemplary ambassadors of the Service. He stressed the significance of protecting the integrity and reputation of the Customs Service while fulfilling their constitutional duties.
One of the primary messages conveyed by the Customs Chief was the need for professionalism in firearms handling, coupled with a commitment to avoiding the misuse of firearms. He made it clear that the era of unjustifiable shootings of innocent Nigerians must come to an end. He urged the new recruits to treat everyone they encounter with the utmost respect and fairness.
Furthermore, the Acting Comptroller-General assured the public that the Nigeria Customs Service would not hesitate to take strict action against any officer found to have violated the rights of citizens. He emphasized that the recruits were expected to serve their nation diligently, maintain a high level of discipline, and uphold the highest standards of integrity.
The Acting Comptroller-General encouraged the new officers to contribute to revenue generation and combat smuggling effectively. He reminded them that their recruitment into the Nigeria Customs Service was based on merit, placing a significant responsibility on their shoulders.
The role of customs officers in protecting the nation’s interests and resources, especially in countering illegal activities, was highlighted during the ceremony. The Acting Comptroller-General expressed his satisfaction with the tactical approaches demonstrated by the recruits and emphasized the critical role they played in fulfilling the nation’s aspirations.
Additionally, the Customs Chief underscored the importance of technology in modern customs operations. He urged the recruits to develop a deep understanding of technological advancements and leverage them to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Customs Service.
In interviews with journalists, the Acting Comptroller-General called on Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s investment policies, expressing hope that these policies would curtail economic sabotage and smuggling in the country. He also reiterated his commitment to visiting border communities to collaborate with them to end smuggling.
The Commandant of the Customs Training College, Comptroller Rasheed Adahunse, praised the graduates for their dedication and character during the Basic Course 1/2023, which covered a wide range of topics and required both academic excellence and practical skills. He commended the trainers and graduates for achieving impressive results within a short six-month period.
In conclusion, the Acting Comptroller-General’s address emphasized the principles of professionalism, discipline, and integrity expected of the newly recruited customs officers. Their role in protecting the nation’s interests and resources while embracing technological advancements was highlighted, underscoring the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to excellence and service.
