The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone “B”, Kaduna, Mr Aminu Sule, has concluded a strategic working tour of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) formations in Sokoto and Kebbi States to deepen collaboration and strengthen border management operations.
This is contained in a statement by the unit’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Saidu Nurudeen.
The visit was conducted in line with the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi’s vision of collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.
It focused on reinforcing partnership driven enforcement, enhancing revenue generation, fostering goodwill among traditional institutions and local communities across the zone.
At the Kebbi Area Command, Sule was received by the Area Controller, Mr Ibrahim Matawalle, where he paid courtesy visits to two foremost traditional rulers.
They were the Emir of Gwandu, retired Maj.-Gen. Iliyasu Bashar and the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera.
Both royal fathers commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its contributions to trade facilitation and the protection of Nigeria’s economy.
They pledged continuous cooperation in sensitising their communities against smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage.
“A strong partnership with Customs is essential to ensuring peace, security, and development in our region,” the Emir of Gwandu said.
In his response, Sule expressed appreciation for the support and hospitality extended to him and his delegation by the Kebbi traditional institutions and the people.
“I am deeply touched by the kindness, respect, and cooperation shown by our traditional rulers and host communities.
“Their partnership strengthens our resolve to work together for national progress and regional development,” he said.
The comptroller also held interactive sessions with Customs officers, local traders, and key community stakeholders in Kebbi to explore strategies for improved revenue collection, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and more efficient trade facilitation.
At the Sokoto/Zamfara Area Command, Sule was received by the Area Controller, Mr Aliyu Isa Ndayako.
Both senior officers discussed operational synergy and intelligence sharing as vital tools for achieving the service’s reform and anti-smuggling objectives.
“Teamwork and coordination among all Customs formations are critical to realizing the CGC’s reform agenda and achieving seamless enforcement operations,” Sule emphasised.
The comptroller reiterated that under the leadership of Adeniyi, the service wad determined to consolidate gains made in border management, enhance operational transparency, and promote efficiency across its commands.
He stated that collaboration with traditional institutions and community leaders would continue to play a vital role in tackling smuggling and promoting legitimate trade across Nigeria’s borders.
“Our royal fathers and community leaders are not just allies but partners in progress.
“Together, we can secure our borders, protect our economy, and build trust with the people we serve,” he said.
Sule assured that FOU Zone B would continue to adopt innovative enforcement measures, maintain professionalism, and uphold integrity in all its operations.
He reaffirmed that the unit remained committed to strengthening ties with host communities, state governments, and relevant agencies to sustain effective border security and drive national economic growth.
He said the visit formed part of a broader initiative by the Customs leadership to promote inter-command cooperation, community engagement, and operational excellence across all border corridors under the unit.
