By ZAKAA LAZARUS-ABUJA
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Wednesday, 23 January 2025, decorated newly appointed and promoted officers at its Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, in the presence of friends, family, and colleagues.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, congratulated the officers, officially marking the conclusion of the 2024 promotion exercise.
Commending the efforts that ensured the success of the exercise, the CGC addressed the newly promoted officers, particularly the senior officers.
“What has happened today is indeed a call to a higher level of service. We will now expect you to operate at a strategic level, where you will be involved in decision-making and the implementation of government policies. This is a very onerous task that requires personal discipline, dedication, and professionalism. It also demands that you adhere to the ethics of the job,” he said.
He added, “Senior officers must always be mindful of their expected responsibilities as management-level officers. We are at a pivotal point in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service, with a growing number of officers needing mentorship and guidance. It is now your duty to provide mentorship, share your experiences, and guide the younger generation of officers to become better professionals as they advance in their careers.”
Newly appointed DCG Suleiman Chiroma, speaking on behalf of the newly appointed and promoted officers, expressed gratitude during his vote of thanks.
“This decoration is not by our wisdom or strength but by the special grace of the Almighty God. It highlights the immense expectations placed upon us, as to whom much is given, much is expected,” Chiroma remarked.
He assured the CGC, the Service, and the nation of their unwavering loyalty and commitment. “We pledge to contribute positively to the successes of the Service under the leadership of the Comptroller-General. We understand that the reward for hard work is more hard work, and we will strive to maintain and uplift the image of the Service and our nation. Our actions going forward will positively impact both the Nigeria Customs Service and the country as a whole.”
This ceremony follows the promotion of 4,291 senior officers on 27 December 2024, further underscoring the Service’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence within its ranks.
