The Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA) on Monday inaugurated its secretariat at Tin Can to enhance its operations.
The association’s President, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, also empowered about 14 members, including widows at the inauguration.
Adeniyi said that the inauguration of the new secretariat showed significant importance and underscores the collective commitment to the principles of support, empowerment, and solidarity that define COWA.
She commended the Acting Assistant Comptroller General, Dera Nnadi, adding that under his remarkable stewardship, the Tin Can Island command surpassed an extraordinary milestone, crossing the one trillion naira revenue mark.
She said that Nnadi’s leadership had transformed TINCAN command with the renovation and modernisation of the administrative building standing as a testament to his dedication to excellence.
Adeniyi said that Nnadi’s achievements had not only enhanced the efficiency of the command, but also inspired pride in all those privileged to serve under him.
“Your unwavering support for COWA is deeply appreciated.
“Your efforts to provide us with a befitting office within this command speak volumes about your understanding of the importance of uplifting the families of those who serve in the Nigeria Customs Service.
“Your generosity has planted seeds of hope and empowerment, and we are forever grateful.
“Your dedication to the welfare of our members and the successes we celebrate today are the fruits of your hard work and that of your exceptional team,” she said.
She said that the commissioning of the office was an achievement as well as a legacy that will serve as a beacon of hope and progress for all members of COWA at the command.
“This secretariat will serve as a sanctuary where ideas are nurtured, initiatives are developed, and support systems are strengthened.
“It will empower us to better serve our members, especially the widows and other vulnerable individuals among us.
“With this office, we can organise skill acquisition programmes hold regular meetings, and implement welfare initiatives more effectively,”Adeniyi said.
She said that the secretariat would enable COWA to establish a stronger connection with members, ensuring that no one is left out or forgotten.
Adeniyi urged COWA members to continue to walk on the path of unity, strength, and progress to honore the sacrifices of their husbands by building a strong, supportive, and impactful association.
The COWA Chairperson, TINCAN Island command, Mrs Chinelo Dera-Nnadi, commended Adeniyi for her unwavering dedication to empowering the wives of customs officers.
Dera-Nnadi said that her leadership had been instrumental in ensuring that every customs officer’s wife has the opportunity to thrive and be self- sustained.
She said that the mission of COWA was to ensure that every wife of a customs officer was free from poverty and is empowered to achieve self-sustainability.
“Our mission is to equip these women with the tools they need to attain economic independence through education, sensitisation, and capacity building.
“In line with this mission and vision, we are privileged today to have our national president commission the newly revamped secretariat.
“Additionally, we are proud to recognise some of our members who have completed the skill acquisition programmes in Multi-purpose liquid soap production, Pastry baking, and Production of all-purpose seasoning powder, ” she said.
She expressed my gratitude to her husband, Mr Dera Nnadi, who is the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Command, and his team for their support.
The Acting Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Dera Nnadi, appreciated the Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi, for given him opportunity to head various commands and contribute to the revenue collection and surprised smugglers.
Nnadi commended all the officers in the command, as well as the media, for supporting him to achieve the milestones.
The Assistant Comptroller-General, who is also the Zonal Coordinator, Zone”A”, Charles Orbih, commended Customs wives for supporting their husbands in building supportive communities.
Orbih said that the secretariat would be a hub for empowerment and resources, adding that it will serve as a venue for shared experiences.
“When you officers know that their loved ones are engaged, their focus can remain on their important work by protecting our borders and facilitating legitimate trade.
“I will like to commend COWA president for all her support , your tireless effort and passion have yeilded magnificent edifice across other commands of COWA,”Orbih said.
In her goodwill message, the Vice Chairman, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarder, (NAGAFF), Princess Chi Ezeh, said that the command had made a history by building the secretariat.
She said that the command also made history by crossing the trillion Naira mark in revenue, adding that the achievement of revenue generation was only possible with the support of the stakeholders.
She commended the COWA president for empowering members and reducing porverty in the environment.
