A visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Cross River, Free Trade Zone and Akwa Ibom Area Command in Calabar offered an opportunity to reconnect with an old friend and witness the professional strides of Deputy Comptroller of Customs Nkiruka Nwala, who is currently serving as the Acting Customs Area Controller. Her appointment marks an important chapter in the leadership history of the three tier command.
Calabar, fondly remembered as the Canaan City, holds special memories for me, having grown up in the historic city. Returning to the command after more than a decade was particularly fulfilling, especially as it provided an opportunity to interact with an officer whose professional journey I have followed with keen interest.
DC Nwala brings considerable experience to her current assignment, having built her career within the Customs Service, including notable stints in the Public Relations Unit. She previously served as Public Relations Officer in the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Apapa Command and Tin Can Island Port Command, gaining valuable experience in stakeholder engagement, public communication and customs administration.
She is the second female senior Customs officer to be appointed Area Controller of the three tier command since its establishment. Her emergence represents a significant milestone and reflects the growing contribution of women to leadership and administration within the Nigeria Customs Service.
Passionate about her assignment, Nwala has expressed her determination to restore the command’s prominence and strengthen its operational effectiveness. Having a good understanding of the terrain and its strategic importance, I believe her experience, commitment and leadership qualities will be valuable assets. We wish her success and pledge our support towards achieving her vision. More grace, Mma!