Customs Boosts Community Relations with Donation of Educational Materials in Portharcourt
By Opeyemi Omodara
The Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt Area I Command, has strengthened its community engagement efforts with a significant educational support initiative at Model Primary School I and II, Orominike, D-Line, Port Harcourt.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC I Barilule Aanee on Tuesday 11 December 2025, the outreach was conducted under the Command’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme, underscored the Service’s commitment to supporting host communities.
According to the statement, the event was graced by the National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi and featured the donation of school bags, notebooks, uniforms and other learning materials, drawing participation from key education stakeholders.
In her remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, described education as a crucial investment in national development. She noted that the gesture aligns with the broader vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who prioritises people-centred initiatives across the Service.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to contributing positively to communities that host our operations. Supporting basic education is one of the most impactful ways to shape the future because it empowers children and strengthens families,” she said. She added that the Command would continue to embark on programmes that promote youth development and community welfare.
During the event, the National President, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, encouraged the pupils to embrace good values and stay dedicated to their studies. She used the opportunity to reaffirm COWA’s mission of supporting children and vulnerable groups within Customs communities.
“Education is the foundation upon which strong societies are built. We want you to use these materials wisely, remain focused, and believe in your abilities. COWA will continue to champion initiatives that brighten the future of children, especially those in our host communities.” she stated.
A representative of the Rivers State Ministry of Education, Emmanuel Onumgbu, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for the timely gesture, describing it as a boost to public school development. He expressed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with the Service on future educational projects.
Goodwill messages also came from representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. They applauded the initiative and emphasised the importance of sustained support for public education.
In her remarks, the Head Teacher of Model Primary School One expressed appreciation on behalf of the school, noting that the donation would ease financial pressure on parents and create a more conducive learning environment for the pupils.
