The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Zone “B”, Kaduna, on Wednesday held a valedictory session in honour of senior officers who have retired from service or been elevated to higher responsibilities.The ceremony, presided over by the Zonal Coordinator, ACG Nsika Umoh, was organised to celebrate the contributions of ACG Idris Abba Aji, Comptroller Faith Ojeifo, Comptroller Aron Kolo, and Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar.
In his introductory remarks, the Comptroller in charge of Administration, Amwe Aku, said the officers served the zone diligently and had made significant contributions to the growth of the Service
He stressed that the event was to further strengthen relationships within the Customs family.
A citation on ACG Idris Abba-Aji highlighted his origin from Borno and his service across key formations including the Federal Operations Unit (FOU A) Lagos, Onne Port and Katsina Command.
He was described as a disciplined and diligent leader who played a major role in capacity building within the service.Similarly, retired Comptroller Aron Kolo, who served as Comptroller of Enforcement Zone B Headquarters, was commended for working across seven commands, including TINCA, CIU Apapa, Abia Area Command and the FOU A.
Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar of Kano Command was also praised as a consistent and hard working leader.
In her goodwill message, Umoh described the occasion as emotional, noting that although they were course mates, it was through service that their bonds deepened.
She appreciated the honourees for their generosity and support, adding that retirement or elevation did not end relationships.
“Going to a higher level comes with greater responsibility. One does not need to be the Comptroller-General of Customs to make meaningful impact,” she said, urging the officers to continue serving as mentors.
Other speakers congratulated the honourees, describing them as refined gentlemen who would be greatly missed.
They stated that attaining senior citizen status in the Service was worthy of celebration and prayed for their continued good health.
Comptroller Abubakar Alkali, Comptroller in Charge of Revenue, Zone B headquarters, emphasised that every beginning must have an end, describing the retirement of mentors, including Area Controller in Kano/Jigawa Command, Comptroller Zurmi, as a bittersweet moment but one that reflected impactful leadership.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that plaques were presented to the honourees in recognition of their service.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Abba-Aji, who was elevated to the rank of ACG, thanked the Zone for sustaining the tradition of celebrating officers at retirement or elevation.
He said leadership was about integrity, nurturing honesty, effective communication and leading by example.
“We are one family in Zone ‘B’. We remain our brothers’ keepers,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)