The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, on Monday, hosted a three-day reunion for its past and present directing staff, in recognition of their dedicated service and contributions to shaping the intellectual foundation of the Service.
The event, which commenced with a regimental dinner at the College cafeteria, brought together retired and serving senior officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, military personnel, and invited guests. The gathering was designed to foster unity, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose among participants.
In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who attended the dinner as Special Guest of Honour, reflected on his personal connection with the College, having previously served as both a directing staff member and as Commandant.
“The College played a central role in my professional development. It instilled in me the importance of training, mentorship, and strategic thinking in Customs operations,” he said.
CGC Adeniyi commended the commitment of former instructors and acknowledged the presence of several past Commandants and Deputy Commandants at the event.
He also praised the outgoing directing staff for their contributions to officers’ development through rigorous training and guidance.
“We are committed to supporting the welfare of Directing Staff. I will request that your names be recorded, so those who serve here are recognised and rewarded through strategic redeployments to commands and departments where their expertise can further benefit the Service,” he added.
On the second day of the event, retired Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Charles Chide reaffirmed the Comptroller-General’s vision of preserving institutional memory and promoting inclusive recognition.
“When I served as Commandant of this College, I witnessed first-hand the professionalism of our instructors. This reunion is a fitting tribute to their efforts. The CGC remains committed to strengthening this institution and uplifting its people,” ACG Chide stated.
The current Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General Oluyomi Adebakin, described the reunion as a strategic effort to reconnect the instructor network and foster a sense of belonging among those who have contributed to the College’s growth.
“We’ve coordinated numerous courses over the years, but rarely do we pause to appreciate those working behind the scenes. This get-together bridges the past and present. We’re sending a clear message to the Customs community; your service here is not forgotten,” ACG Adebakin noted.
Speaking on behalf of other participants, former Directing Staff Comptroller Haniel Hadison reflected on his experience and expressed satisfaction with the College’s current direction.
“Being back here brings a deep sense of fulfilment. This is where we trained minds and shaped leaders. It’s encouraging to see that spirit preserved and celebrated,” Hadison remarked.
