Comptroller Otunla Celebrates 49 Retiring Customs Officers, Says Their Legacy Will Inspire Future Generations
Kathy Kyari
The Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, has commended 49 retiring officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for what he described as decades of “distinguished and patriotic service” to the nation, saying their legacy of discipline and mentorship will continue to shape the next generation of Customs personnel.
The send-forth ceremony, held at the Idiroko Border Command Headquarters, drew officers, journalists, stakeholders, and community leaders who gathered to honour the men and women whose careers, according to Otunla, “defined loyalty, courage, and professionalism.”
“On behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, we decided that our retiring officers should not just leave quietly,” Otunla said. “With support from our stakeholders, we gave them a befitting send-forth celebration because they deserve it.”
The Ogun 1 Area Command — one of Nigeria’s busiest borders plays a critical role in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and national security. By honouring its retirees, the Command reinforced a growing culture within the NCS that values mentorship, legacy, and institutional continuity.
Otunla highlighted the contributions of the retirees to the Command’s enforcement successes, noting that many had mentored younger officers who now lead critical operations.
“Many of these officers were my real strikers in enforcement,” he said. “They recorded remarkable seizures through teamwork, and their legacy will continue through those they trained.”
Reflecting on the demanding nature of Customs work, Otunla described officers as “task collectors,” often misunderstood by the public but vital to national development.
“If you ask who hates Customs, many will raise their hands because we collect taxes,” he said with a smile. “But if you ask who wants to join Customs, millions will raise theirs. We may not be loved, but we are respected for doing our job.”
He further reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining strong collaboration with border communities, emphasizing that effective border management requires shared responsibility. “We can’t do it alone,” he said. “We are here to protect our people and safeguard the nation’s integrity.”
A highlight of the event was the double honour bestowed on Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Idris Adamu, Coordinator Intervention, Ogun I Command. He received awards for professionalism and media relations, one from Comptroller Otunla and another from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
“This means a lot to me,” CSC Adamu said emotionally. “It’s not just a symbol of my service, but a reminder that diligence and integrity never go unnoticed.”
Adamu expressed gratitude to the leadership of the NCS, his colleagues, and Comptroller Otunla for their mentorship and support. “Together, we have shared long days, tough duties, and proud moments that will remain with me forever,” he added.
Several speakers at the event lauded the Command’s leadership for recognizing officers while alive, noting that such gestures boost morale and reinforce the Customs Service’s reputation as a disciplined, people-centered institution.
The ceremony concluded with plaque presentations, cultural displays, and emotional tributes marking the close of an era for the retirees and inspiring renewed dedication among officers still in service.
“Their legacy of excellence, discipline, and dedication will not be forgotten,” Otunla affirmed.
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