A leadership change has occurred at the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘C’ in Owerri, Imo State, as a new controller, Abdulahi Bishir Balogun, has taken control of the unit.
The baton of leadership was handed over to him by the former controller, Michael Ugbagu at the unit’s headquarters in Owerri.
The new Controller of the unit thanked and appreciated the outgoing Controller, retired Comptroller Michael Ugbagu for his outstanding performance during his tenure, and his significant role in curbing and bringing smuggling activities to it’s minimal level within his jurisdiction.
Comptroller Balogun, in his address, pledged to build on the on-going sustainable development and the initiatives of the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, in efficiency and strategic evolution. He also restated his commitment in ensuring that the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service in the areas of anti-smuggling, trade facilitation, blockage of revenue leakages and national security are achieved.
He charged officers of the unit to carry out their duties professionally, also display high level of discipline and commitment in the discharge of their duties and obligations.
He also promised to operate an open door policy for officers, sister agencies and the host communities at large in ensuring a seamless operation within and around the unit’s jurisdiction.
The new controller sought the unwavering support and co-operation of the officers of the unit, stakeholders, and sister agencies to achieve a united goal. He emphasised the importance of teamwork and being resolute in the fight against smuggling, illicit trade, and economic sabotage.
The former controller for the unit, Ugbagu in his valedictory speech, thanked God for seeing him through his tenure. He also appreciated officers of the unit and sister agencies for their support. He enjoined them to also give maximum support to his successor.