The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has distributed learning aids, including books, school bags, and writing materials, to 1,300 students of Government Secondary School (GSS), Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.
This event marked the official inauguration of the NCS’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) unit, Customs Cares
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCS recently established its CSR Unit, Customs Cares, to drive programmes aligned with the eight presidential priority areas and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking at the event on Thursday, the NCS Comptroller-General (C-G), Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised that students would not only receive learning aids but also scholarships to support their academic growth
He further stated that the Customs Cares Initiative would focus on rehabilitating critical infrastructure at the school and other institutions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones as part of the NCS’s contribution to the educational sector.
“This initiative represents the first of many interventions planned across our operational areas in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
“We will follow this model in other areas, ensuring regular consultations, as advised by the Minister of Educatio
“In collaboration with the school, the NCS identified security gaps and has installed CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety on the premises.
“Renovation work on the school’s auditorium is also set to begin soon,” said Adeniyi.
Adeniyi emphasized that the selection of GSS Wuse Zone 3 was not coincidental, citing the NCS’s historical connection to the community.
He highlighted that the school adoption initiative was a long-term commitment and plans to extend it to one school in each Local Area Council within the Federal Capital Territory, tailoring interventions to each institution’s specific needs.
“Customs Cares is designed to foster community empowerment through a comprehensive approach to CSR, focusing on education, healthcare, social investments, environmental sustainability, food security, and the creative economy.”
He noted that the initiative would be implemented in phases, focusing on addressing critical social, educational, and infrastructural gaps in underserved communities
“Strategic partnerships with local stakeholders, government agencies, and international organisations will help ensure the long-term success of the programme.
“The NCS has committed to earmarking 4 per cent of its annual wage bill, equivalent to 50 percent of each officer’s one-month salary, to fund the initiative.
“Additionally, numerous officers have pledged personal contributions to support various aspects of the project.”
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, lauded Customs for the initiative and encouraged collaboration with relevant education bodies to ensure tailored interventions.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, also commended the NCS for its impactful CSR efforts, recognising the role it plays in securing a bright future for the nation’s youth.
Edun said President Bola Tinubu’s administration was working diligently to secure a bright future for the younger generation through its economic reforms, particularly the deregulation of the oil sector and foreign exchange policy.
Mrs Josephine Chizoba Ugwu, Principal of GSS Wuse Zone 3, expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that it would inspire students to excel academically and in character.
