Customs Boss Reads Riot Act to Newly Inaugurated ACTU Members.

By Joe Njoku,
Global Freight News.

The Comptroller-General of Customs has read a riot act to the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) members at the service headquarters in Abuja shortly after the inauguration.

The initiative follows the recent partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)

Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG) Aliyu Alajogun, in charge of Enforcement, Investigation and Inspection emphasised the importance of tackling corruption and other related offences head on.

Addressing the ICPC delegation, Alajogun said, “We are tasked with ensuring that our operations are free from corruption and that we uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in all our dealings to ensure a far-reaching impact on our economic stability and international reputation.”

He urged the newly inaugurated members to adhere to the standards of their new roles, adding that, “You are the frontline defenders against corruption and environmental degradation. Each of you has been selected for your expertise, integrity and dedication to public service. Together, you will lead initiatives that foster accountability and restore public trust.”

“As you embark on this journey, always remember that your efforts contribute to the Nigeria Customs Service and the larger objective of preserving our environment for future generations. I urge you to embrace collaboration with other stakeholders, leverage technology, and enact environmental crimes.”

On behalf of the ICPC, Olusegun Adigun, the Acting Director of the System Study and Review Department, praised the Comptroller-General of Customs for His commitment to enhancing the transparency and integrity of the Service through this partnership, which led to the inauguration of the new ACTU members.
According to him,”I must comment the Comptroller-General of Customs for today’s inauguration.” It is hoped that this event will empower the unit to deliver on its mandate, which includes periodic staff training on Anti-Corruption and the examination of system processes.”

He therefore charged the NCS Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit members to maintain integrity, exercise their duties responsibly, and avoid any form of oppression as they fulfill the strategic roles expected of them.

While expressing gratitude to the Nigeria Customs Service for making the event a reality. He said,”We hope that achieving our collective vision will assist in building strong institutions for the overall benefit of our great nation.”

However, the newly inaugurated ACTU Chairman, Comptroller of Customs and Intelligence Unit (CIU), Comptroller Emmanuel Osogba pledged to implement policies aimed at enhancing the transparency of Customs operations across the Service formations while maintaining NCS standards.

“Our focus will be on establishing clear guidelines for transparency, enhancing mechanisms for reporting misconduct, and engaging with different departments and units within the Service to foster trust and participation,” he said.

“Together, We can create a legacy and transparency that engenders a positive perception among the transparency and integrity index- a legacy that future generations will cherish.”

The newly inaugurated ACTU members took Oath of Allegiance, administered by Barrister Nkem Ezenwa, Director of the Anti-Corruption Unit. There tenure will last span three years, after which a new regime will be appointed.