Esther Oritse
Lagos — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goes beyond supporting trade, noting that its interventions are designed to positively impact communities and strengthen national development.
Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi assured that alongside revenue collection, Customs will continue backing sister agencies in ways that directly improve citizens’ welfare and public service delivery.
Speaking during a visit by the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Professor Tunji Olaopa, and his delegation at the Customs Headquarters last week in Abuja. Adeniyi stressed the importance of institutional collaboration and sustaining bonds of friendship among agencies.
“In our private discussions and what we have seen here, it is obvious that it is good to maintain good neighbourliness. For us, this visit represents the expression of continued friendship and cooperation that we have enjoyed over the years,” Adeniyi said.
Highlighting the Service’s CSR strides, the CGC recalled that in the first quarter of 2025, Customs adopted a secondary school in Wuse, reaching more than 2,000 students with learning tools and equipment. As part of its 2025–2026 capital projects, the Service is remodelling the school’s assembly hall and installing solar lighting facilities.
He said: “Many of our officers began their careers in Wuse, and our professional history is not complete without reference to that community. We still see ourselves as part of the Wuse community and are committed to giving back.”
Response to the Commission’s request for operational vehicles, Adeniyi assured that the issue had been noted and would be considered. “We may not be able to do everything at once, but the most important thing is our commitment to assisting sister agencies,” he stated.
In his remarks, Professor Olaopa commended the NCS for its reforms and innovations in revenue generation, describing Customs as “a partner in progress.” He said the visit was aimed at strengthening institutional ties and securing support for the Commission’s operational needs.
“We are proud to be associated with the incredible strides that the Nigeria Customs Service has demonstrated. The President himself acknowledges the innovations brought to revenue generation, and we consider Customs a model for other agencies,” Olaopa declared.
He disclosed that the Commission had recently launched its strategic plan and looked forward to deeper collaboration with Customs, particularly in CSR and infrastructure support.
The meeting ended on a note of mutual commitment to national development, with both institutions pledging to sustain cooperation and partnership.
