Nigeria Customs Chief Demands Zero Tolerance for Corruption as Newly Inaugurated ACTU Members Take Oath
In an avowed push for integrity and transparency within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), through his representative, read a “riot act” to newly appointed members of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) during their inauguration at the NCS headquarters in Abuja.
The initiative, held in partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), marks a pivotal moment in the NCS’s ongoing battle against corruption.
Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG), Aliyu Alajogun, representing CGC Adewale Adeniyi, addressed the gathering and emphasised the Service’s commitment to eradicating corruption.
“We are tasked with ensuring that our operations remain corruption-free and adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct,” he stated.
Alajogun stressed that these measures are not merely internal practices but are critical for Nigeria’s economic resilience and international standing.
Calling for unwavering dedication from the newly inaugurated ACTU members, Alajogun reminded them of the significant responsibility they carry.
“You are the frontline defenders against corruption and environmental degradation. Each of you has been chosen for your expertise, integrity, and commitment to public service. Your leadership will be instrumental in fostering accountability and restoring public trust,” he remarked.
He further urged members to embrace collaboration, leverage modern technology, and develop innovative strategies to combat environmental crimes.
Representing the ICPC, Olusegun Adigun, Acting Director of the System Study and Review Department, commended the CGC for his commitment to bolstering transparency within the Service.
“This inauguration symbolises a renewed mandate for the Anti-Corruption Unit, which includes regular staff training on anti-corruption and a thorough review of system processes,” Adigun noted.
He called on ACTU members to uphold their duties with integrity and to avoid any form of abuse of power, affirming that this new role is strategic to the broader vision of national development.
The event also saw a pledge from the newly appointed ACTU Chairman, Comptroller Emmanuel Osogba of the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), who outlined his vision for a transparent and accountable NCS.
“Our mission will focus on establishing firm guidelines for transparency, improving mechanisms for reporting misconduct, and engaging all departments within the Service,” he said.
Osogba expressed optimism that these efforts would boost public trust and enhance Nigeria’s standing on global transparency indices.
The ACTU members, who took the Oath of Allegiance administered by Barrister Nkem Ezenwa, Director of the Anti-Corruption Unit, will serve a three-year tenure.
At the end of this term, a new team will take over to continue the mission of integrity and transparency within the Nigeria Customs Service.
