The Niger/Kogi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with traditional institutions and other critical stakeholders as part of efforts to deepen community engagement, enhance intelligence sharing, and promote effective collaboration in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities.
This commitment was demonstrated on November 4, 2026, when the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Solomon Nwankwegu, paid a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Emir of Minna, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Faruk Bahago III, as part of efforts to strengthen relations with traditional institutions and seek continued royal support for the Service’s operations.
During the visit, DC Nwankwegu formally introduced himself to the revered traditional ruler and acknowledged the strategic role of traditional institutions in community mobilisation, intelligence sharing, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.
He noted that effective collaboration with stakeholders remains essential to achieving the Service’s mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, suppression of smuggling, and protection of the national economy.
In his response, the Emir of Minna warmly received the Acting Controller and his delegation, offering royal blessings and prayers for a successful and impactful tenure.
He prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for DC Nwankwegu in the discharge of his responsibilities.
The royal father also offered special prayers for officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly those deployed to the field, seeking divine protection, safety, and success in the performance of their duties. He further prayed for lasting peace, unity, and stability across Nigeria.
He emphasised the importance of sustained engagement between government institutions and traditional authorities, highlighting the need for collective commitment towards peace, security, and national development.
In appreciation, the Acting CAC expressed gratitude for the warm reception, royal blessings, and prayers, while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and effective stakeholder engagement in advancing the Service’s mandate.
The visit highlights the Niger/Kogi Area Command’s commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with traditional institutions and other stakeholders in support of the Nigeria Customs Service’s core responsibilities, including revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling enforcement, national security, and economic development.
