CGC Adeniyi Solicits The Co-operation of Mai’adua, Kongolom Border Communities in Katsina State Against Smuggling
By Asuquo Nuwak
CGC Adeniyi Solicits The Co-operation of Mai’adua, Kongolom Border Communities in Katsina State Against Smuggling
In an effort to fortify strong relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and border communities, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), convened an interactive session recently at Kongolom Border Station in Katsina State.
According to the report, the session has brought together traditional leaders, business men and community members of a township, known as Mai’adua, situated 91 kilometers from Katsina town in Northern Nigeria.
During the interactive session at the Customs House in Kongolom, CGC Adeniyi, disclosed that the purpose of his visit was to heed the appeals of community leaders and to undertake requisite measures to address their concerns.
In addition to this, the discourse primarily focused on the challenges encountered by business operators in the vicinity, due to border closures. He lauded the prevailing atmosphere of peaceful co-existence, while emphasizing its pivotal role in mitigating security risks in the area.
In his words: “There is a profound correlation between security and economic development and without peace and security, commerce cannot flourish.”
In addressing the issue of recent seizures by Customs operatives in the area, the CGC, stated that Presidential Directives mandated the “return of seized food items to their owners”, with the condition that they should be sold within Nigerian markets.
He noted the crucial role played by community intelligence in ensuring adherence to regulations and enforcement measures, by leveraging the knowledge and insights gathered from residents, authorities can effectively monitor and respond to potential violations, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness of enforcement efforts.
The CGC expressed satisfaction with the longstanding collaboration between the Service and the residents of Mai’adua, while emphasizing the need for continued synergy to achieve more significant milestones.
In his presentation, he lauded the steadfast backing provided by His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State, while emphasizing the governor’s consistent and steadfast commitment to advancing the objectives and accomplishments of the Nigeria Customs Service.
In the words of CGC Adeniyi: “This unwavering support from the state government has been instrumental in facilitating the effective execution of Customs operations and initiatives within the region”.
He hinted that Governor Radda’s collaboration and partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service reflects a shared vision for promoting security, prosperity, and development in the state and beyond.
The Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Naziru Mua’azu Danmusa, Who represented the Katsina State Governor, extended gratitude to the CGC for his visit and lauded the Nigeria Customs Service for its efforts in safeguarding lives and property.
Apart from this, he said, the engagement underscored the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to foster constructive dialogue and collaboration with border communities, ensuring mutual prosperity and security.
At the same time, the Galadima of Daura, Engr Ahmad Diddiri Ahmad, and the District Head of Mai’adua, commended the CGC for his visit, citing it as a testament to the productive partnership between the Service and Mai’adua’s residents.
In conclusion, he commended the exemplary conduct of Mai’adua’s residents, as they advocated for the re-opening of the Nigerian border with Niger to rejuvenate local businesses.
