By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone C, Owerri, has witnessed a change of leadership as Deputy Comptroller of Customs Farouk Nadaniya assumed duty as Acting Comptroller following the retirement of Comptroller Bishir Abdullahi Balogun.
Nadaniya formally took over the affairs of the unit during a handing-over ceremony held at the FOU Zone C headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, on Friday, September 25, 2026.
According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs R. Nche, Nadaniya was received by Officers and men of the unit, while the various unit heads were introduced during the ceremony.
In his farewell remarks, Balogun thanked Officers of the unit for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
The retired Comptroller reminded Officers that retirement awaits every officer of the Service and advised them to begin preparing for life after service from the time they join the Customs Service.
He urged Officers to remain diligent in their various areas of responsibility, noting that the achievements recorded by the unit were made possible through teamwork and collective commitment.
Balogun also appealed to the Officers to give Nadaniya the same level of support and cooperation as he assumes leadership of the unit.
Speaking after taking over, Nadaniya expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to serve in the new capacity.
He also thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team of the NCS for finding him worthy of the responsibility.
Nadaniya described his assumption of office as more than a change in leadership, saying it represented a renewed call to service, responsibility and accountability.
He highlighted the strategic importance of FOU Zone C to the Customs Service, particularly its role in anti-smuggling operations, revenue protection, facilitation of legitimate trade and national security, in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
The Acting Comptroller charged Officers to remain disciplined, professional, vigilant and accountable in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities.
He also commended Balogun and the officers of the unit for the achievements recorded during the retired Comptroller’s tenure, attributing the progress to sacrifice, professionalism, teamwork, courage and commitment to duty.
Nadaniya further charged patrol team leaders to maintain discipline, professionalism, vigilance and accountability in their operations.
He called for the cooperation and support of officers in implementing the strategic vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, particularly in the areas of modernisation, efficiency, compliance and improved Customs procedures.
