…Hands Over to Comptroller Abubakar
Author: Lucy Nyambi.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lagos Free Trade Zone Command, on Thursday, 4 September 2025, witnessed a symbolic transition of leadership as Comptroller Olanrewaju Olumoh formally handed over to Comptroller Hawa Abubakar.
In his farewell remarks, Comptroller Olumoh, who is proceeding on retirement, reflected on the Command’s achievements under his watch.
“From January to August 2025, to the Glory of God, we have been able to generate ₦459 billion. This is a testament to our officers’ professionalism and hard work and the trust of our compliant stakeholders”, he said.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, the Service’s management, and his officers for the opportunity to serve and urged them to remain steadfast under the new leadership.
“As I retire, I urge you to continue raising the bar. The Command has very bright prospects, and with your commitment under the leadership of our new Customs Area Controller, I believe this Command will reach heights we cannot even imagine now”, he stated.
“To my successor, you are inheriting not just a command but a family of dedicated officers who, by the grace of God, will give you their support”, he added.
Taking over the mantle of leadership, Comptroller Abubakar paid glowing tribute to her predecessor, describing him as a mentor and guide throughout her career in the Service so far. “He has been my mentor since I joined the Service. We are here to work as a family, to carry out the Service’s mandate, and God will help us and lead the way for us,” she said.
Addressing stakeholders, Abubakar reaffirmed her commitment to partnership and collaboration. “We are one large family with the stakeholders, and I promise them they should be more relaxed and feel at home with us. We are one, and we will continue to be one. God will be with us.”
The ceremony ended with a reception honouring the outgoing and incoming Controllers.
