Customs College Reunion: CGC Adeniyi Honours Former Instructors, Reaffirms Commitment to Welfare
The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, came alive with nostalgia and celebration as it hosted a three-day reunion in honour of its past and present Directing Staff, reaffirming their indispensable role in shaping the intellectual and operational backbone of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Held from Monday, 31 June 2025, the landmark event opened with a Regimental Dinner at the College cafeteria and drew together a distinguished gathering of retired and serving senior Customs officers, military personnel, and invited guests.
The purpose was not only to celebrate the contributions of the College’s teaching staff over the years, but to rekindle camaraderie and institutional pride among participants.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, who graced the dinner as Special Guest of Honour, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the College and its mentors, recounting his own journey through its hallowed halls as both a Directing Staff and former Commandant.
“The College played a central role in my professional development. It instilled in me the importance of training, mentorship, and strategic thinking in Customs operations,” CGC Adeniyi remarked.
He expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of former instructors and highlighted the presence of several past Commandants and Deputy Commandants at the event as a testament to the College’s enduring legacy.
The CGC also pledged to ensure that the service of Directing Staff would not go unnoticed.
“We are committed to supporting the welfare of Directing Staff. I will request that your names be recorded, so those who serve here are recognised and rewarded through strategic redeployments to commands and departments where their expertise can further benefit the Service,” he added.
The reunion continued on the second day with a renewed call for institutional memory preservation. Retired Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Charles Chide, a former Commandant of the College, lent his voice in support of the CGC’s efforts, commending the focus on inclusivity and recognition.
“When I served as Commandant of this College, I witnessed first-hand the professionalism of our instructors. This reunion is a fitting tribute to their efforts. The CGC remains committed to strengthening this institution and uplifting its people,” ACG Chide stated.
Adding her voice to the event’s significance, the current Commandant, Assistant Comptroller-General Oluyomi Adebakin, said the reunion was a strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing connections among instructors who have driven the College’s mission through the years.
“We’ve coordinated numerous courses over the years, but rarely do we pause to appreciate those working behind the scenes. This get-together bridges the past and present. We’re sending a clear message to the Customs community: your service here is not forgotten,” she asserted.
For many participants, the reunion was both emotional and affirming. Former Directing Staff member, Comptroller Haniel Hadison, speaking on behalf of attendees, praised the initiative and shared his pride in witnessing the continued relevance of the College.
“Being back here brings a deep sense of fulfilment. This is where we trained minds and shaped leaders. It’s encouraging to see that spirit preserved and celebrated,” he said.
The event not only underscored the strategic importance of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College in officer development, but also demonstrated the Service’s renewed commitment to honouring institutional heritage, fostering unity, and enhancing morale among its ranks.
