By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Niger/Kogi Area Command, has moved to strengthen its partnership with traditional institutions as part of efforts to deepen community engagement and improve collaboration in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Solomon Nwankwegu, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Emir of Minna, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Faruk Bahago III, CON, on November 4, 2026.
According to a statement signed by Abubakar Abdulkareem Zakariya, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I and Command Public Relations Officer, Niger/Kogi Area Command, the visit provided an opportunity for Nwankwegu to formally introduce himself to the traditional ruler and seek the continued support and cooperation of the traditional institution.
The Acting Customs Area Controller also acknowledged the enduring contributions of traditional institutions to peace and social cohesion, noting their strategic importance in community mobilisation, intelligence sharing and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.
He stressed that effective collaboration with stakeholders remained essential to achieving the Service’s mandate, particularly in revenue generation, trade facilitation, suppression of smuggling and protection of the national economy.
In his response, the Emir of Minna warmly received Nwankwegu and his delegation, offering royal blessings and prayers for a successful and impactful tenure.
The traditional ruler wished the Acting Customs Area Controller wisdom, strength and divine guidance in the discharge of his responsibilities.
The Emir 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.
The royal father 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 of the warm reception, royal blessings and prayers, Nwankwegu expressed profound gratitude to the Emir and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline and effective stakeholder engagement.
He also reiterated the Command’s determination to strengthen partnerships with traditional institutions and other critical stakeholders in advancing the Service’s mandate.
The visit underscores the Niger/Kogi Area Command’s commitment to building strategic relationships with traditional institutions in support of its core responsibilities, including revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling enforcement, national security and economic development.
