The Nigeria Customs’ Chief reputed for cool-headedness and smooth operating tactics, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, takes over the leadership mantle of the Ogun 1 Customs Command, Idiroko, Ogun State in the South West region, with a firm resolve to replicate his magical outings elsewhere in his new posting
By Edu Abade
Winding up at the Joint Border Patrol Team Operations on Monday, December 9, 2024, the Nigeria Customs’ Chief who is commonly addressed as “a smooth operator” by his admirers, acting Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, moved to the Ogun 1 Customs Command, Idiroko where he took over from the outgoing Comptroller James F. Ojo as the new Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command.
Described as an officer with impeccable character, cool-headed and loyal to a fault, DC Shuaibu who is awaiting his new rank of Comptroller has assured all stakeholders of the Command of his resolve to work tirelessly to take the Area Command higher and better than what he met on ground as of the time he took over.
The development followed redeployment of men and officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), due to retirement and the necessity to infuse new blood into the operations of the various commands by the management of the NCS. The newly redeployed Controller fully assumed duties at the command shortly after Comptroller Ojo proceeded on retirement.
Shuaibu, an experienced and dedicated officer, brings with him a wealth of expertise in border operations and anti-smuggling activities. Until his new appointment, he served as the Coordinator of the recently disbanded Joint Border Patrol Team, Sector 2, South west, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership in combating smuggling activities and enhancing inter-agency collaboration.
A statement issued by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) Ogun 1 Command, Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, a Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) revealed that in his inaugural address, DC Shuaibu expressed commitment to further strengthening the Ogun I Command’s core mandates of revenue generation, border security and trade facilitation.
He emphasized the importance of teamwork, innovation, and engagement with border communities and other stakeholders to achieve these objectives.
“It is an honour to lead this strategic Command, which plays a vital role in safeguarding our nation’s economy and security. I pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and dedication in fulfilling our responsibilities,” Deputy Comptroller Shuaibu stated.
He also paid glowing tributes to his predecessor, Comptroller James F. Ojo, whose tenure marked significant accomplishments, including robust anti-smuggling operations and enhanced revenue collection. Shuaibu lauded Ojo’s leadership and pledged to build upon the solid foundation laid during his administration.
In his handing-over speech, Comptroller Ojo, who expressed gratitude to officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their support and professionalism during his tenure, encouraged them to extend the same level of cooperation to the new Acting Controller, noting that unity and discipline remain crucial to achieving sustained success.
The Ogun I Command, located in the critical Idiroko border area, plays a pivotal role in Customs operations, particularly in combating smuggling and facilitating legitimate trade. Under DC Shuaibu’s leadership, the Command is poised to scale new heights in operational efficiency and national service.
The acting CAC urged all stakeholders, including sister security agencies and the local community, to continue their collaboration with Ogun I Command as it navigates this new chapter, adding: “Together, these partnerships will ensure the continued success of Customs operations and contribute to the economic growth and security of the nation.”
