The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone “A” of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has pledged to intensify its fight against smuggling while deepening collaboration with the media to strengthen public awareness and accountability in the nation’s maritime and border security operations.
The Comptroller, FOU Zone “A”, Aliyu Gambo made the commitment while expressing appreciation to the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) for recognising the unit’s contributions to the maritime sector.
The Comptroller said the recognition had further strengthened the unit’s resolve to improve its operational performance and sustain its mandate of protecting Nigeria’s economic borders, curbing smuggling and ensuring that legitimate trade thrives in a secure and efficient environment.
According to the Comptroller, the award was not a personal achievement but a recognition of the commitment of officers and men of FOU Zone “A”, whose efforts in intelligence-led enforcement, border security and trade facilitation had contributed to the unit’s performance.
The Comptroller also acknowledged the contribution of partner security and regulatory agencies, stressing that inter-agency cooperation remained critical to achieving stronger results in border management and enforcement.
“We shall continue to deepen cooperation with the media, strengthen operational excellence, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service in service to our nation,” the Comptroller said.
The Comptroller commended AMJON for its role in promoting informed discourse on maritime affairs and holding stakeholders accountable through responsible journalism.
The media, the Comptroller noted, plays an important role in amplifying institutional achievements while also challenging government agencies and other stakeholders to improve their performance.
The Comptroller said the recognition therefore came with a renewed sense of responsibility, adding that FOU Zone “A” would remain committed to transparency, collaboration and results in the discharge of its responsibilities.
The unit’s renewed commitment is expected to further reinforce its efforts against smuggling while promoting legitimate trade and strengthening cooperation among the customs service, other security and regulatory agencies and the media.
The Comptroller thanked AMJON for the honour, describing the recognition as both a privilege and a responsibility, and pledged that FOU Zone “A” would continue to serve Nigeria with distinction.
