The Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has emphasized the importance of using tactical measures when dealing with citizens before resorting to the use of firearms.
He made this known during the official declaration of a sensitization workshop on the practical implementation of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, Abuja, on Thursday, 27 July 2023,
He urged Officers and Men of the Service to exercise restraint and apply firearms only in extreme circumstances that require self-defense. The caution was specifically directed at Senior Officers of the Service.
He said “We must not, in any circumstance, use firearms – except we have an absolute necessity for using it. The citizens of this country are there for us to protect.”
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service has consistently underscored his fundamental principles, which revolve around safeguarding citizens and enhancing the efficiency of the Service.
These principles entail prioritizing trade facilitation, improving staff welfare, and combatting smuggling activities.
He strongly emphasizes that the primary mandate of the Service is to preserve and protect the lives and properties of Nigerians.
He firmly believes that the foundation of the NCS should be based on fairness and integrity in all interactions with the citizens.
The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs has frequently stressed the potential benefits of the new Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, asserting that its proper implementation will significantly enhance the proficiency of the Service.
He earnestly urges the Officers to diligently learn and fully grasp the significance of the legal framework provided for the Service. Furthermore, he emphasizes that all actions and decisions must align with this framework.
As per his statements, the recently passed legislation has significantly empowered the Nigeria Customs Service with extensive authority to enforce sanctions against criminals who breach Customs laws.
However, he also acknowledges that along with these newfound powers, there come numerous limitations and responsibilities.
It is crucial for them to devise effective strategies while implementing these powers. The focus should be on establishing a conducive environment for trade facilitation and fostering friendly business and port settings.