The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) issued a stern warning to the newly inaugurated members of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) at the Nigeria Customs Headquarters in Abuja, emphasizing the urgent need for integrity and transparency within Customs operations. The inauguration, which follows a recent partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), reflects the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to combating corruption.
The CGC, represented by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG) Aliyu Alajogun, emphasized the critical role ACTU members play in upholding ethical conduct and ensuring Customs processes remain free from corruption. Alajogun stated, “Our mission is to root out corruption and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, impacting our economic stability and international reputation.”
Alajogun urged the ACTU members to embrace their roles as frontline defenders against corruption and environmental degradation, highlighting their selection based on expertise, integrity, and dedication. He encouraged them to collaborate with stakeholders, leverage technology, and innovate strategies to combat environmental crimes, which align with the broader NCS objectives.
Olusegun Adigun, Acting Director of ICPC’s System Study and Review Department, commended the CGC’s commitment to transparency and integrity within NCS operations, underscoring the importance of periodic anti-corruption training and process reviews for staff. “This inauguration empowers ACTU to deliver on its mandate, which includes training and monitoring system processes to ensure a transparent Customs Service,” Adigun noted.
Newly appointed ACTU Chairman, Comptroller Emmanuel Osogba, pledged a transparent approach to Customs operations, focusing on clear guidelines for reporting misconduct and fostering trust across various departments. “Our aim is to create a legacy of integrity and transparency that will improve our rating on the transparency and integrity index and foster a positive public perception,” he stated.
The inauguration concluded with the ACTU members taking an Oath of Allegiance, led by Barrister Nkem Ezenwa, Director of the Anti-Corruption Unit. Their tenure will span three years, marking a significant step toward a more transparent and accountable Nigeria Customs Service.