By Lucy Nyambi

In a heartwarming gesture, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reached out to the family of Susan Odulaja, one of the victims of the tragic stampede that occurred during the sale of 25kg bags of rice in Lagos on February 23, 2024.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, sent a delegation led by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs/Zonal Coordinator Zone “A,” Hammi Swomen, to visit the family in Jibowu, Lagos State, on Friday, April 26, 2024.

During the visit, the Zonal Coordinator expressed the NCS’s deepest condolences to the family, stating, “We remember the unfortunate incident that led to the loss of four precious lives during the disposal of 25kg bags of rice at a reduced price of N10,000. We are here to support this family and demonstrate our commitment to their well-being.”

This visit marks the second time the NCS has reached out to the family, demonstrating the service’s commitment to showing compassion and empathy to those affected by the tragedy.

“We are here on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs to support this family. This is our second visit, but it is to demonstrate our continued support to the family.” He explained.

Commiserating with the widower, Michael Odulaja, ACG Swomen, pledged the NCS’ commitment to work with the family and support them continuously.”The service is mindful of the effects of this loss, and we have pledged to work with this family and support them continuously. “When you are grieving and have people around you, it reduces the trauma. Right now, we are going to report to the CGC, and the service is considering, in concrete terms, what to do going forward,” he stated.

In response, Odulaja appreciated the service representatives for their visit and support. He said, “I thank God and the Nigeria Customs Service for their support. Any support that they give us, I will ensure that I use it wisely and invest it in the children.”

It will be recalled that the Service issued a press statement after the unfortunate incident on the 26 of February 2024, promising to follow up with the families of the stampede victims.

According to the statement, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families during this challenging time, and we assure them of our unwavering support. We are working with the hospital officials to establish contact and engage directly with the victims’ families on the next step.”

Gift Wada

Assistant Comptroller of Customs Sanusi Saulawa has showcased Nigeria’s groundbreaking approaches to trade facilitation at the 2024 World Border Security Congress (WBSC) in Istanbul, Turkey.

Saulawa’s paper, “Enabling Trade Facilitation Under Fragile Borders: Nigeria’s Experience,” emphasised the challenges and opportunities faced by African borders, with Nigeria as a focal point.

The annual WBSC gathers law enforcement agents, industry experts, security analysts, IT vendors, scholars, and representatives from international organisations such as Interpol, WCO, AU, USCBP, UNODC, and OSCE.

The forum serves as a platform for brainstorming and exchanging ideas to address the complex issues surrounding global frontiers.

Saulawa’s presentation highlighted Nigeria Customs’ efforts in trade facilitation, including initiatives like the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program and Advance Ruling. These strategies aim to streamline border procedures, enhance security, and promote efficient trade flow.

By sharing Nigeria’s experience, Saulawa contributed to the collective effort to find practical solutions to the challenges posed by vast and often fragile borders. His paper underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing border security issues on a global scale.

The presentation solidifies Nigeria’s position as a leader in border management and trade facilitation efforts.

…Seizes 92 Points to Secure Top 3 Position

By Cynthia Idowu

The basketball team of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) secured a spot among the top three teams at the recently concluded tournament held at the Indoor Hall of the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abuja.

The determined team, which included Lucky Aliyu, defeated the Federal Fire Service team by 92 – 61 points to clinch the bronze medal.

Muhammad Abba, Customs team captain, praised the veteran players for their contribution to the team’s success in the tournament.

Coach Abba, a former player himself, commended the Comptroller General of Customs(CGC) Bashir Adeniyi for his efforts to rejuvenate sports in the Service.

“I am pleased with the positive attitude displayed by the players throughout the championship, and on their behalf, I want to express our gratitude to our CGC for his unwavering support for sports in the Nigeria Customs,” said Coach Abba.

Sam Onikeku, the Service Sports Secretary and member of the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, shared his vision for sports in the Nigeria Customs.