By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has called on Nigerians to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, patriotism, patience, and national unity as Muslims across the world celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.
The Customs boss made the call on Wednesday after observing Eid prayers at the Modakeke Eid Ground in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he stressed that the lessons symbolised by Eid-el-Kabir remain critical to Nigeria’s peace, stability, and economic progress.
Addressing journalists shortly after the prayers, Adeniyi described Eid-el-Kabir as a solemn occasion that reminds Muslims of total obedience to Almighty Allah, sacrifice, and unwavering faith, drawing lessons from the story of Prophet Abraham.
According to him, the significance of the celebration goes beyond festivities, as Muslims are expected to reflect deeply on the virtues of patience, service to humanity, and submission to divine instruction.
“We all know what Eid symbolises. It symbolises obedience to Almighty Allah and sacrifice. These are values every Muslim is expected to imbibe in daily life,” the CGC stated.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving the lives of Nigerians to witness another Eid-el-Kabir celebration in peace and good health, while also urging citizens to continue promoting peaceful coexistence irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations.
Describing Nigeria as a blessed nation with enormous potential, Adeniyi stressed the need for citizens to work collectively toward national unity and harmony.
“Nigeria is a beautiful country, and we all must unite ourselves,” he said.
The Customs Comptroller-General further appealed to Nigerians to remain law-abiding and patient, stressing that discipline, patriotism, and respect for the rule of law remain vital ingredients for national development and social stability.
“We must continue to embrace unity, discipline, sacrifice and patriotism for the development of our country. Nigerians should remain patient, respect the rule of law and continue to support peaceful national progress,” he added.
Speaking on the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adeniyi expressed satisfaction with the Service’s current performance in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, and export promotion.
He noted that the Service has continued to align its operations with the economic policies and reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that ongoing reforms within the Service are already yielding positive results.
According to him, the NCS remains committed to supporting economic growth, improving national security, and enhancing legitimate trade through modernised Customs procedures and increased export activities.
“The NCS is on the right trajectory in revenue generation, trade facilitation, security and economic prosperity. Export activities are increasing steadily in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Adeniyi stated.
The CGC’s message comes at a time when the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts aimed at boosting government revenue, curbing smuggling, and facilitating trade as part of broader initiatives to strengthen the nation’s economy.
Observers believe the Eid-el-Kabir message reflects the Service’s broader commitment not only to economic development but also to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
