By Steve Agbota,Tokunbo2

Copyright thesun

By Steve Agbota

The Zone A division of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday decorated 239 officers who were recently promoted to Comptrollers, Deputy Comptrollers and Assistant Comptrollers in the South West region.

Delivering his address during the decoration ceremony held in Lagos, the Coordinator, Zone A of the NCS, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, told the newly promoted officers that the ceremony is more than just a change in rank, but symbolises confidence in their ability to lead and readiness to shoulder greater responsibilities to the nation.

“Today is a significant day for the Service, as we celebrate the well-deserved promotions of 239 exceptional officers who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence and patriotic service.

“Let me begin by warmly congratulating every officer to be honoured today. Amongst you are 18 distinguished officers who have been elevated to the rank of Comptrollers, having reached the pinnacle of our Service hierarchy through years of exemplary leadership and dedication.

“We also celebrate 102 officers who have been promoted to Deputy Comptrollers, whose proven competence and integrity have earned them this prestigious recognition.

“Additionally, we honour 119 officers who have attained the rank of Assistant Comptrollers, whose hard work and commitment have opened new doors of opportunity and responsibility.

“This remarkable achievement did not happen by chance. It is the direct result of the dynamic leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi working in harmony with a dedicated Management team that shares his commitment to excellence,” he added.

According to him, the CGC’s vision of a world-class Customs Service built on consolidation, collaboration and innovation has created an environment where merit is truly rewarded and career advancement is based on performance and dedication.

“Today’s ceremony represents more than just a change in rank. It symbolises the Service’s confidence in your ability to lead, your proven track record of integrity, and your readiness to shoulder greater responsibilities in the service to our nation.

“Each insignia you receive today tells a story of countless acts of patriotic service that may have gone unnoticed by the public but have not been forgotten by the Service.

“As you step into these new roles, I want you to understand that you are now the face of leadership in the Nigeria Customs Service. Junior officers will look to you for guidance, inspiration, and direction. Your conduct, both on and off duty, will be scrutinised and emulated by those who aspire to walk in your footsteps. The responsibility is enormous, but I have complete faith in your ability to rise to the occasion,” he explained.

He said the Nigeria Customs Service operates in an increasingly complex global environment, adding that international trade patterns are evolving, security threats are becoming more sophisticated, and technology is reshaping how Customs conducts its operations.

“Your success in these new positions will depend not just on your experience, but on your willingness to embrace change, learn new skills, and adapt to emerging challenges. The Service has invested heavily in your development, and now it is time to demonstrate that this investment was worthwhile.

“I urge you to remember that true leadership is measured not by the authority you wield, but by the positive impact you have on others. Mentor the younger officers, share your knowledge generously, and create an environment where excellence can flourish. The future of our Service depends on your ability to build and lead high-performing teams that can deliver on our mandate with distinction.

“As we celebrate today, let us also look forward to the future with optimism and determination. The Nigeria Customs Service is on an upward trajectory, and with leaders of your calibre at the helm of various Commands and Units, I am confident that we will continue to exceed expectations and set new standards of excellence in public service.

“To the families and loved ones of our newly promoted officers, thank you for your steadfast support and understanding. The demands of our profession are significant, and your patience and encouragement have been instrumental in helping these officers reach this milestone. Today, we celebrate not just their achievement, but your sacrifices as well,” he said.