The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Command, Comptroller MS Shuaibu, has formally handed over the leadership of the Command to Comptroller GA Otunla, marking the end of a brief but impactful tenure characterized by enhanced anti-smuggling operations, strategic partnerships, and revenue generation.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony held at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko, Shuaibu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, describing his time at the helm as a defining moment in his long-standing career in the Nigeria Customs Service.

“It has been an incredible journey, marked by challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons. Serving as the Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command has been the pinnacle of this journey,” he said.

During his three-month tenure, the Command recorded notable achievements, including the generation of ₦43,412,794.00 in revenue and 161 seizures of various contraband items. Among the seizures were 3,699 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 150 sacks of Indian Hemp, three single-barrel long guns, four packets of cartridges totaling 100 rounds, and a cash haul of 7 billion CFA Francs.

Shuaibu attributed the Command’s achievements to the dedication and professionalism of the officers under his leadership, as well as robust collaboration with sister security agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the border communities.

“I am immensely proud of what we achieved together. Our efforts have positioned the Ogun I Command as a key player in Nigeria’s economic and security architecture,” he added.

He urged officers, stakeholders, and sister agencies to extend full cooperation to his successor, Comptroller GA Otunla, emphasizing that continued support is essential for sustaining the Command’s progress.

In his address, Shuaibu reflected on the tough decisions taken during his tenure, acknowledging that some may have stirred controversy but were necessary for the advancement of the Command. “Toes were stepped on, feathers were ruffled, but those decisions were never for personal gain. They were made in the interest of performance and national interest,” he said.

Shuaibu thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Service’s management for the trust and opportunity to lead, noting that his time in Ogun I Command had been fulfilling and transformative.

Quoting Apostle Paul in conclusion, he said, “I have run with perseverance and have finished the race. Whether I have finished it successfully or not is not for me to say – I leave that to you.”