ACG Shuaibu Highlights Anti-Smuggling Milestones in FOU A, Hands Over to Comptroller Aliyu
Author: Lucy Nyambi.
The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, witnessed a seamless change of leadership as outgoing Comptroller, now Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Shuaibu, formally handed over to the new Comptroller, Gambo Aliyu, at a ceremony held at the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos.
In his valedictory remarks, ACG Shuaibu reflected on his stewardship, describing his tenure as both challenging and rewarding. He highlighted major operational successes recorded under his watch, including 476 interceptions and 761 seized items valued at over ₦10 billion.
“Upon my resumption on 23 April this year, I pledged to deploy my wealth of experience to navigate the complexity of this Unit. Through intelligence-driven operations, we have remained faithful to that commitment, he said.
He commended the officers for their tremendous dedication, resilience and teamwork, noting that these collective efforts enabled the Unit to confront high-profile smuggling challenges while maintaining high standards of professionalism.
ACG Shuaibu congratulated his successor and expressed confidence in his ability to advance the Unit’s core mandate. “To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. I have no doubt your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in this pivotal role, he added.
He urged the officers to extend to Comptroller Aliyu the same level of cooperation, discipline and professionalism that strengthened operations during his tenure.
In his response, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu applauded ACG Shuaibu for his impactful service, describing him as a leader whose achievements will serve as a benchmark for future operations. He assured that he would build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessor.
Comptroller Aliyu outlined his strategic priorities for the Unit, which include enhanced enforcement operations, improved stakeholder collaboration, sustained capacity building, and professionalism across all ranks.
“My doors will remain open to the officers and men of the Unit. I encourage teamwork, constructive ideas and transparency in all dealings. Together, we shall continue to strengthen the reputation of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’ as a formidable enforcement unit and a dependable protector of Nigeria’s socio-economic interests,” he said.
He also pledged to deepen collaboration with sister agencies and community leaders, emphasising that justice, equity and fairness would guide all enforcement activities under his leadership.
The ceremony featured the presentation of gifts to ACG Shuaibu, the cutting of a farewell cake, and warm tributes from officers.
