The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, inaugurated the groundbreaking ceremony for a 30-bed ultra-modern reference hospital in Bauchi, generously donated by the Abdul Samad Rabiu (ASR) Initiative for Africa. The event took place on Monday, July 8, 2024, and marked a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare services for customs officers and the local community.

CGC Adewale Adeniyi expressed deep gratitude to the ASR Initiative, emphasizing the project’s importance in improving the welfare of customs personnel and the residents of Bauchi. “We are happy to be a recipient of this great project. It will immensely help our officers and the entire community,” he stated.

Dr. Ubong Udoh, CEO of the ASR Initiative for Africa, appreciated CGC Adeniyi for honoring his commitment by attending the ceremony. He highlighted the long-standing partnership between the ASR Initiative and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), noting the limitless potential of their collaborative efforts. “I believe the potential of what we can achieve as partners is limitless,” Dr. Udoh remarked.

Hon. Tanko Dutse, representing the local community, thanked CGC Adeniyi for supporting the NCS office in Bauchi. He acknowledged the positive impact of the NCS on security and other local issues. “The community and state at large appreciate the presence of the NCS. This hospital will allow our people who lack the means to access other medical facilities to receive necessary healthcare. We appeal for more of such Corporate Social Responsibilities,” he said.

Architect Muktar Aliyu, the project manager, assured attendees of the hospital’s potential to revolutionize healthcare services in the area. “This 30-bed ultra-modern hospital is a commitment to healthcare and the community’s future. Together, we can build a legacy of resilience and quality healthcare,” he stated.

The groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes the NCS’s dedication to the well-being of its personnel and the community, reflecting the strong partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the ASR Initiative for Africa.

In a separate engagement, CGC Adeniyi addressed the officers and men serving in Zone D Headquarters, Bauchi/Gombe Area Command, and Federal Operations Unit Zone D. “I am here to encourage you to do more by effectively discharging the statutory functions of NCS in this Zone. Make sure you utilize the opportunity at your disposal to improve yourselves intellectually in preparation for future challenges,” he urged.