Customs restates commitment to supporting education in host communities
By Hussaina Yakubu, Kaduna
The Comptroller of Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone B, Ahmadu Shuibu says the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) is committed to providing conducive learning environment and supporting the overall development of pupils in its Nursery and Primary School in Kaduna.
Speaking at a send-forth ceremony organized by the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) in Kaduna, Shuibu highlighted efforts made by the Customs Area Controller and his team to improve the school’s infrastructure and welfare.
Shuibu disclosed that the Customs Area Controller has taken responsibility for the school’s operations, including transportation and other needs, while the FOU has joined forces to contribute to the school’s development.
“We noticed areas that needed attention, such as water supply and restroom facilities, and we have made progress in addressing them.
” This end-of-year celebration, in collaboration with COWA, is part of our efforts to provide the children with a memorable experience because humanity is everything,” he stated.
The Comptroller emphasized that the customs service would continue to ensure the wellbeing of the students, and providing a conducive learning environment and support for their overall development.
Comptroller Shuibu also commented on enforcement and compliance within Zone B, noting that the economic realities of the country necessitate a balance between anti-smuggling efforts, trade facilitation, and corporate social responsibility.
He revealed that smuggling activities in the zone had decreased significantly, partly due to poor road conditions during the rainy season and the economic struggles of individuals.
“We are deploying emotional intelligence and local knowledge in tackling smuggling activities. The Customs job is knowledge-based and intelligence-driven, and we are leveraging technology to secure our borders and curb illicit trade,” Shuibu added.
On future plans, he assured that advanced technology would play a vital role in enhancing border security and smuggling prevention.
In his remarks, Comptroller Tijjani Abe, Area Controller of Kaduna Area Command, emphasized the agency’s dedication to renovating and upgrading the staff school.
He noted that recent efforts included repairing leaking roofs, providing scholarships to students, and completing 90% of restroom renovations, which will be finalized before the school resumes.
Abe further disclosed that the school has been included in the NCS 2025 budget for extensive renovations and construction of additional classrooms.
“The school, established in 1992, has consistently produced excellent students. Our goal is to ensure a conducive learning environment and integrate the staff into the Customs payment scheme as a motivation for their commendable efforts,” Abe said.
Chairperson of COWA Kaduna Zone, Hajiya Fadila Ahmed Abe, described the send-forth ceremony as a milestone, reflecting the association’s commitment to fostering community and passion among children.
She expressed gratitude to the customs officers for their support and commended COWA members for their dedication to the event’s success.
“This is the first of its kind in the zone, and it signifies our resolve to strengthen bonds and celebrate with the children,” she added.
She said ,the event underscores the Customs’ dedication to community engagement and national development through education and humanitarian efforts.
