KOREDE DAMIFOGO
The Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Mohammed Babandede, has charged the 239 senior officers who were recently promoted to their next rank to be ready to shoulder more responsibilities for the nation.
BUSINESSINSIDERNG reports that part of the Officers decorated are Deputy Comptroller, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, Deputy Comptroller Nkiru Nwala, Assistant Comptroller Jerome Attah, Assistant Comptroller Bukoye Oloyede and 235 others.
However, Babandede speaking in Lagos during the decoration of the officers said each insignia received is a story of countless acts of patriotic service that may have gone unnoticed by the public but have not been forgotten by the Service.
He also disclosed that the promotion symbolises confidence in the officers’ ability to lead.
According to ACG Babandede, “Today, we celebrate the well-deserved promotions of 239 exceptional officers who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence and patriotic service. Let me begin by warmly congratulating every officer honoured today.
‘Amongst you are 18 distinguished officers who have been elevated to the rank of Comptrollers, having reached the pinnacle of our Service hierarchy through years of exemplary leadership and dedication.
“We also celebrate 102 officers who have been promoted to Deputy Comptrollers, whose proven competence and integrity have earned them this prestigious recognition.
“Additionally, we honour 119 officers who have attained the rank of Assistant Comptrollers, whose hard work and commitment have opened new doors of opportunity and responsibility.”
“This remarkable achievement did not happen by chance. It is the direct result of the dynamic leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, working in harmony with a dedicated Management team that shares his commitment to excellence.
He, however, reminded the officers that the management of the Service ensured that merit is truly rewarded and career advancement is based on performance and dedication.
“The CGC’s vision of a world-class Customs Service built on Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation has created an environment where merit is truly rewarded and career advancement is based on performance and dedication.
“Today’s ceremony represents more than just a change in rank. It symbolises the Service’s confidence in your ability to lead, your proven track record of integrity, and your readiness to shoulder greater responsibilities in service to our nation.
“Each insignia you receive today tells a story of countless acts of patriotic service that may have gone unnoticed by the public but have not been forgotten by the Service.
“As you step into these new roles, I want you to understand that you are now the face of leadership in the Nigeria Customs Service. Junior officers will look to you for guidance, inspiration, and direction. Your conduct, both on and off duty, will be scrutinised and emulated by those who aspire to walk in your footsteps. The responsibility is enormous, but I have complete faith in your ability to rise to the occasion.
“The Nigeria Customs Service operates in an increasingly complex global environment. International trade patterns are evolving, security threats are becoming more sophisticated, and technology is reshaping how we conduct our operations.
“Your success in these new positions will depend not just on your experience, but on your willingness to embrace change, learn new skills, and adapt to emerging challenges. The Service has invested heavily in your development, and now it is time to demonstrate that this investment was worthwhile.
“I urge you to remember that true leadership is measured not by the authority you wield, but by the positive impact you have on others. Mentor the younger officers, share your knowledge generously, and create an environment where excellence can flourish. The future of our Service depends on your ability to build and lead high-performing teams that can deliver on our mandate with distinction.
“As we celebrate today, let us also look forward to the future with optimism and determination. The Nigeria Customs Service is on an upward trajectory, and with leaders of your calibre at the helm of various Commands and Units, I am confident that we will continue to exceed expectations and set new standards of excellence in public service.
“To the families and loved ones of our newly promoted officers, thank you for your steadfast support and understanding. The demands of our profession are significant, and your patience and encouragement have been instrumental in helping these officers reach this milestone. Today, we celebrate not just their achievement, but your sacrifices as well.
“Before I conclude, let me remind all of us that promotion is not a destination but a checkpoint in our journey of service. There are still greater heights to attain, more challenges to overcome, and more contributions to make to our beloved country. Let today’s achievement motivate you to reach for even greater distinction in the years ahead.
“Once again, congratulations to all our newly promoted officers. May you continue to be worthy ambassadors of the Service. May your tenure in these new positions be marked by outstanding achievements that will inspire future generations of customs officers.”