By Bon Peters
The Zonal Coordinator of Zone C, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), ACG S.K. Dangaladima, on Wednesday, honoured newly promoted officers in a grand ceremony at the service headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In his address, ACG Dangaladima emphasised that the occasion was not just about awarding new ranks but about recognising hard work, dedication, and unwavering service to the nation.
“Promotion is not merely a reward for past achievements; it is a call to greater responsibility, higher expectations, and renewed commitment to excellence,” he stated.
Customs Officers as National Guardians
Dangaladima reminded officers of their vital role as custodians of Nigeria’s borders, facilitators of trade, and enforcers of fiscal policies. He commended the promoted officers for their diligence, perseverance, and professionalism, adding that their elevation was a testament to their integrity and alignment with the NCS’s vision.
“With this new rank comes the challenge to lead, inspire, and uphold the values of accountability, transparency, and efficiency,” he admonished.
Encouraging the officers to embrace leadership with humility, he stressed that leadership is about service, not power. He urged them to make decisions that serve the greater good, foster teamwork, and lead by example in tackling smuggling, fraud, and other threats to national security.
Gratitude to Families and the Customs Leadership
Dangaladima also extended heartfelt appreciation to the families and friends of the promoted officers, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering support.
“Behind every successful officer is a family that stands as a pillar of strength,” he noted.
He further expressed gratitude to Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, psc (+), and his management team for their steadfast support and practical policies that have enhanced Customs productivity and human capacity development.
Port Harcourt Area II Makes History
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Onne Seaport Chapter, Mr. Mike Ebeatu, lauded the historic promotion of officers from Port Harcourt Area II Command, Onne, which produced the highest number of officers elevated from Deputy Comptroller to Comptroller.
“This is the first time in the history of the Area II Command that we are seeing such a remarkable achievement. To whom much is given, much is expected,” Ebeatu stated.
He encouraged those who were not promoted to remain steadfast, assuring them that promotion comes in due time.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The ceremony was attended by Customs Area Controllers from across Zone C, members of ANLCA Eastern Zone, Port Police, Nigerian Immigration Service, NDLEA, retired Customs chiefs, Bonded Terminal Operators, and other key stakeholders in the trade and security sectors.
