Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in the areas of security, border management and socio-economic development.
The Governor gave the assurance while receiving the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG), Zone B, Nsikan Patrick Umoh, who led a delegation from the NCS Zonal Headquarters, Kaduna, on a condolence visit over the passing of a former Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Alhaji Abubakar Lawal Bagiwa, at the Government House, Katsina.
Describing the visit as a demonstration of the long-standing cordial relationship between the Katsina State Government and the Nigeria Customs Service, Governor Radda commended the leadership of the Service for finding time, despite their tight schedules, to spend two days in the state.
“I sincerely appreciate the Nigeria Customs Service for this show of solidarity and respect. Your presence here today reflects the strong bond between the Service and Katsina State, and it further strengthens our resolve to continue working together for the peace, security and development of our people,” the Governor said.
He noted that the zone under the supervision of ACG Umoh covers nearly ten states, including the Federal Capital Territory, and praised the dedication and professionalism of officers and men of the Service in the discharge of their duties.
Recalling past challenges between some border communities and Customs officers, Governor Radda observed that such issues had significantly reduced due to improved professionalism, discipline and leadership within the Service, as well as sustained engagement by the State Government.
“We have witnessed remarkable improvement in the relationship between border communities and Customs officers. This is a result of professionalism, better leadership and continuous dialogue. We commend the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire management for their commitment to national service,” he stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the vital role of the Nigeria Customs Service in revenue generation, stressing that resources accruing to the Federation Account have enabled states, including Katsina, to execute critical development projects and provide essential services to the people.
“The work you do in revenue generation and border security is critical to the growth of our economy. The funds that come to states from the Federation Account make it possible for us to invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other sectors that directly impact the lives of our people,” he said.
Governor Radda assured the delegation of the continued support of the Katsina State Government, particularly in the areas of security, border control and stakeholder engagement.
“Our administration remains fully committed to working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service in addressing emerging security and operational challenges. We will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of your mandate for the benefit of our state and the nation,” he added.
The Governor paid glowing tribute to the late ACG Abubakar Lawal Bagiwa, describing him as an illustrious son of Katsina State who served Nigeria with dedication, integrity and distinction.
“He was a proud son of Katsina who rose through the ranks and rendered selfless service to our great nation. We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Aljannatul Firdaus and gives his family, colleagues and the Katsina Emirate Council the fortitude to bear this great loss,” he said.
Earlier, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, ACG Nsikan Patrick Umoh, Zonal Coordinator, Zone B, thanked Governor Radda and the Katsina State Government for the cooperation and support extended to the Service.
“We appreciate the Governor and the people of Katsina State for the cordial relationship and support, which have enabled our officers to operate in a peaceful and secure environment,” she said.
She disclosed that there had been no major security incident within the Katsina Area Command in recent times, attributing this to effective collaboration with the State Government and other security agencies.
ACG Umoh commended Governor Radda for his leadership, particularly in the areas of security and infrastructure, noting that peace and stability in the state had continued to improve.
On behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the management and staff of the Service, she conveyed condolences to the Governor and the Katsina Emirate Council over the death of former Assistant Comptroller-General, Alhaji Abubakar Lawal Bagiwa, and prayed for Allah’s mercy upon his soul.
She explained that the visit formed part of a two-day working tour of Customs formations in the North-West and parts of the North-Central, covering Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory and the North-Western Marine Command.
The ACG also drew attention to the pressure on Jibia Border, the only functional border post in Katsina State, and called for continued support, especially in the area of security, to ensure effective operations.
Those in attendance included the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; the Permanent Secretary, Government House; the Katsina State Controller of Customs ACG MS Musa; the Katsina Area Commander; and other senior officers.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.