Customs College Reunion: CGC Adeniyi Honours Former Instructors, Reaffirms Commitment to Welfare

Customs College Reunion: CGC Adeniyi Honours Former Instructors, Reaffirms Commitment to Welfare

 Abuja | July 3, 2025

It was a moment of nostalgia, gratitude, and renewed purpose as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) hosted a memorable Customs College Reunion at its prestigious training facility in Gwagwalada, Abuja. The event, which brought together past and present officers, was highlighted by the presence of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who paid glowing tribute to former instructors and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to staff welfare and professional development.

Customs College CGC Adeniyi with Former Directing Staff

In an emotional address, CGC Adeniyi—an alumnus of the college himself—recalled the critical role the Customs Training College has played in shaping generations of Customs officers. He described the institution as the “foundation of excellence” and credited its instructors for instilling discipline, integrity, and competence in the officers who now lead the service.

“Today, we are not just celebrating a college, we are honouring a legacy,” Adeniyi said. “The instructors we had did not just teach us procedures; they taught us values that still guide us. This reunion is our way of saying thank you and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.”

In a symbolic gesture, the CGC presented plaques and letters of commendation to several retired instructors and commandants in recognition of their service. He also announced plans to enhance the college’s infrastructure, upgrade its training curriculum, and improve the welfare of both staff and trainees.

“We’ve coordinated numerous courses over the years, but rarely do we pause to appreciate those working behind the scenes. This get-together bridges the past and present. We’re sending a clear message to the Customs community: your service here is not forgotten,” she asserted.

For many participants, the reunion was both emotional and affirming. Former Directing Staff member, Comptroller Haniel Hadison, speaking on behalf of attendees, praised the initiative and shared his pride in witnessing the continued relevance of the College.

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As part of the ongoing reforms under his leadership, Adeniyi revealed that the NCS will prioritize capacity building and career advancement, with increased investment in technology-driven learning and international exchange programs. He emphasized that the modern Customs officer must be “globally competent, ethically grounded, and digitally equipped.”

The reunion, attended by senior Customs officers, veterans, cadets, and representatives from allied agencies, featured panel discussions, awards, and cultural displays. Alumni shared stories of their days in training, reflecting on how the college prepared them for the rigors of customs operations and public service.

Customs College Reunion Customs college hosts reunion, Former Instructors

The reunion continued on the second day with a renewed call for institutional memory preservation. Retired Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Charles Chide, a former Commandant of the College, lent his voice in support of the CGC’s efforts, commending the focus on inclusivity and recognition.

“When I served as Commandant of this College, I witnessed first-hand the professionalism of our instructors. This reunion is a fitting tribute to their efforts. The CGC remains committed to strengthening this institution and uplifting its people,” ACG Chide stated.

The event ended with a tour of upgraded facilities, including the newly commissioned ICT Centre, E-Library, and modernized classrooms—part of the NCS’s broader modernization project aimed at transforming the college into a regional center of excellence.

CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed that the Customs College will continue to stand as a beacon of learning, discipline, and unity for generations to come.