By Uzor Odigbo
Assistant Controller General of Customs in charge of Zone A, Aminu Dahiru, has charged officers under his watch to be vigilant to forestall attempts at smuggling arms and ammunition into the country.
Dahiru who was addressing officers and men of Ondo Ekiti Command as part of his tour of customs formations in the South West, said customs officers have a duty to contribute to national security and citizens safety..
He urged the officers to see their duties as a contribution to national social and economic growth adding that their acceptance to serve as customs officers could be likened to oaths of allegiance which must not fail.
He advised officers to see themselves as part of the change agenda of government adding that the change is working even if many are yet to feel it while urging them to maximise the benefits of available logistics.
On boosting customs operations, Dahiru said the headquarters is working on provision of patrol and other vehicles to enhance customs operations.
According to him, it is proven that increased economic activities associated with the yuletide periods also come with some attempts at committing infractions like smuggling, duty evasion through under declaration and concealment.
He advised officers to be very vigilant and avoid any act of truancy that will result in them abandoning their duty posts or absenting from duty without official leave (AWOL)
”You all should see yourselves as part of government’s journey to entrench change. We must shun selfishness and continue to give in our best at all times. This our professional calling is a service to humanity. We have duties to protect lives and the economy.
”Let’s also sustain and improve on our cordial relationship with our host communities. I am not saying should be cowards but please be always law abiding. The service will not protect any lawless officer caught contravening the laws.
”I am starting this tour with your command and wish to state that all commands are important. This doesn’t mean that the command I will visit last is the least. You all have your various contributions to our overall goal as a service.All commands are equal”
Dahiru tour will take him to border stations in Shaki Border (Oyo State) ,Idiroko Border(Ogun) and Badagry in Lagos.
Customs Area Controller of Ondo Ekiti Customs Command, Comptroller Jack Ajoku welcomed the ACG and assured him of the full compliance of his men to all extant customs laws while promising that they will be good ambassadors of the service at all times.
Ajoku added that the command is vigorously pursuing the Controller General of Customs zero tolerance for corruption and all other vices.
The Area Controller said patrols have been strengthened while customs community relations have been improved as with enlightenment campaigns to encourage duty payment and discourage smuggling.
