…CSC Idris Adamu: ‘I Leave With Gratitude and Fulfilment’
The Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Godwin Otunla, has honoured 49 retiring officers of the command, describing them as exemplary patriots who served the nation with integrity, discipline, and professionalism.
The colourful retirement and award ceremony, held at the Idiroko Border Command Headquarters, drew top Customs officials, border community stakeholders, journalists, and serving officers, all gathered to celebrate the gallant officers for their decades of dedicated service to national security and trade facilitation.
In his keynote address, Comptroller Otunla said the event was organized to recognize and celebrate the immense contributions of the retiring personnel, noting that their sacrifices have left a lasting legacy within the Nigeria Customs Service.
“On behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, we decided that our retiring officers about 49 of them, the highest being a Deputy Comptroller should not just leave quietly,” Otunla said.
“With the support of our stakeholders, we chose to give them a befitting send-forth celebration in recognition of their commitment and loyalty.”
The Area Controller highlighted that the retirees had played critical roles in anti-smuggling operations, intelligence enforcement, and mentorship of younger officers.
“Many of these officers were my real strikers in enforcement operations. We recorded remarkable seizures through their efforts, and they worked as a team with their subordinates. The younger ones have surely learned valuable lessons from them,” he added.
Comptroller Otunla also reflected on the nature of the job, describing Customs personnel as task collectors who often face public misunderstanding despite performing essential duties for national development.
“If you ask the public who hates Customs, many will raise their hands because we collect taxes. But if you ask who wants to join Customs, millions will raise theirs. We may not always be loved, but we are respected for doing our job,” he remarked.
“Our collaboration with border communities remains vital, because we cannot work in isolation. We are here to protect the people and safeguard the integrity of our borders.”
One of the highlights of the event was the double recognition of Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Idris Adamu, Coordinator of Intervention, Ogun 1 Command.
He received two awards, one from Comptroller Otunla for outstanding service and another from members of Maritime Reporters for professionalism and strong media relations.
Comptroller Otunla described CSC Adamu as a “worthy ambassador of the Nigeria Customs Service,” whose dedication and professionalism have strengthened Customs–media collaboration and enhanced public understanding of border operations.
“Our officers are leaving behind a legacy of excellence, discipline, and commitment to duty. Their efforts in combating smuggling, securing borders, and enhancing revenue generation will not be forgotten,” Otunla emphasized.
In his appreciation remarks, CSC Idris Adamu expressed deep gratitude to the management of the Nigeria Customs Service and the leadership of Ogun 1 Command for their support throughout his career.
“It is with deep gratitude and a profound sense of fulfillment that I stand before you today as I take a bow from active service,” he said.
“Looking back over the years, I feel truly honoured to have served this great institution, the Nigeria Customs Service with dedication, loyalty, and pride.”
Idris also commended Comptroller Otunla for his mentorship and inspiration, adding that his leadership style encouraged teamwork and professionalism.
“Your guidance and unwavering support have made this journey a rewarding one, and I remain deeply grateful,” he said.
“To my colleagues and subordinates, thank you for the teamwork, cooperation, and friendship that made every challenge surmountable. Together, we shared long days, tough duties, and proud moments that will remain with me forever.”
He concluded by dedicating his awards to all officers who continue to serve the nation with diligence, integrity, and pride under the visionary leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
The ceremony ended with the presentation of plaques, cultural performances, and emotional tributes from colleagues, families, and stakeholders, all celebrating the retirees for their outstanding service and contributions to national security and economic growth.
The Ogun 1 Command, under the leadership of Comptroller Godwin Otunla, has continued to record impressive achievements in anti-smuggling operations, revenue generation, and community engagement, a testament to the command’s operational excellence and human-centered leadership.