…new Acting Comptroller pledges stronger anti-smuggling operations, revenue protection
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘C’, Owerri, has witnessed a change of leadership as retired Comptroller Bishir Abdullahi Balogun handed over the affairs of the unit to Deputy Comptroller Farouk Nadaniya, the newly appointed Acting Comptroller.
The formal handover ceremony, held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the unit’s headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, marked the end of Balogun’s tenure and the commencement of Nadaniya’s stewardship. The new Acting Comptroller was received by officers and men of the unit, after which unit heads were introduced.
In his farewell remarks, Balogun expressed appreciation to officers and men of FOU Zone ‘C’ for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
He reminded officers that retirement is an inevitable phase of every Customs officer’s career, urging them to begin preparing for life after service from the moment they join the Service.
Balogun also charged officers to remain diligent in the discharge of their responsibilities, noting that the achievements recorded by the unit during his tenure were products of teamwork and collective commitment.
He called on the officers to extend the same level of support and cooperation to his successor to enable him to succeed in his new assignment.
Nadaniya Assumes Mandate
Assuming office, Nadaniya thanked Allah for the grace and guidance to take on what he described as an important responsibility.
He also expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the NCS management team for finding him worthy of the confidence reposed in him.
Nadaniya said his assumption of office was more than a change in leadership, describing it as a renewed call to service, responsibility and accountability.
He underscored the strategic importance of FOU Zone ‘C’ to the Customs Service, particularly in the areas of anti-smuggling operations, revenue protection, facilitation of legitimate trade and national security, in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
‘Remain Professional, Vigilant’
The Acting Comptroller charged officers to remain firm, professional and uncompromising in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.
He commended the outgoing Comptroller for the achievements recorded under his leadership, attributing them to sacrifice, professionalism, teamwork, courage and commitment to duty by Balogun and the officers of the unit.
Nadaniya specifically urged patrol team leaders to maintain discipline, professionalism, vigilance and accountability in their operations.
He further sought the cooperation and support of officers in implementing the strategic vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, particularly in the areas of modernisation, operational efficiency, compliance and improved Customs procedures.
The leadership transition reinforces the Service’s emphasis on continuity and collective responsibility as FOU Zone ‘C’ continues its mandate of combating smuggling and protecting government revenue across its area of jurisdiction.