Nigeria Customs Service appointments see top promotions and special recognition to strengthen leadership, compliance, and border security

The Nigeria Customs Service has embarked on a significant leadership shake-up following the approval of new management appointments and special promotions at the Service’s 64th regular board meeting on Tuesday.

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The meeting, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, endorsed the promotion of five Deputy Comptroller-Generals and eight Assistant Comptroller-Generals, marking one of the most extensive leadership restructurings in recent years.

Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed on Wednesday that the appointments were made in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and in line with the Federal Character principles outlined in the Constitution.

Promoted to Deputy Comptroller-General are Baba Imam (North-East), Isah Umar (North-West), Tijjani Abe (North-West), Timi Bomodi (South-South), and Oluyomi Adebakin (South-West).

Their elevation follows the retirement of senior officers and aims to reinforce strategic leadership across key formations.

The board also approved eight new Assistant Comptroller-Generals: C.G. Ogbonna (South-East), I. Abba-Aji (North-East), G.M. Haruna (South-South), E.J. Edelduok (South-South), G. Gaura (North-West), I. Isyaku (North-West), M.S. Shuaibu (North-Central), and M.D. Malah (North-East).

In addition, ten officers received Special Promotions for “exceptional professionalism, leadership, and outstanding service performance,” recognising contributions that improved Customs operations, strengthened national security, and enhanced revenue mobilisation.

Minister Wale Edun, presiding over the meeting, emphasised the importance of a strategically positioned workforce. “The Service must continually adapt to global trade dynamics, strengthen its internal systems, and ensure Nigeria’s borders remain secure,” he said.

The appointments and promotions coincide with ongoing reforms within the Customs Service, including automation of processes, restructuring of commands, and enhanced anti-smuggling measures.

The board noted that these changes are essential for succession planning, morale building, and ensuring effective management across all operations.

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“The Service must remain responsive to evolving trade, security, and administrative challenges,” the board added, signalling a clear commitment to reform and operational excellence under the new Customs Act.