NCS Grooms 100 Deputy Comptrollers for Higher Leadership Roles.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a Strategic Refresher Course for 100 Deputy Comptrollers to equip them for higher leadership responsibilities and reinforce ongoing institutional reforms.
The training, organised by the Human Resources Development Department in partnership with the Customs Police Unit, commenced on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada.
Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, the Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Dow Gaura, declared the workshop open. He described the participants as officers carefully selected for greater responsibilities, noting that the programme is designed to prepare them to lead with discipline, professionalism and integrity.
“These officers are expected to serve as role models for the next generation of Customs personnel. This training is not only about professional competence but also about strengthening leadership, discipline, conduct and succession planning,” ACG Gaura stated.
In his keynote address, retired Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs Dera Nnadi reminded participants that promotion comes with increased responsibility rather than privilege.
“The rank of Deputy Comptroller is not simply a position of authority; it is a call to service. Officers are accountable to the Service, their colleagues, subordinates, national leadership and stakeholders,” he said.
The Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Comptroller Haniel Hadison, also urged the officers to uphold the core values of regimentation, discipline and professionalism, stressing that senior officers must set the standard through exemplary conduct, appearance and leadership.
Earlier, the Acting Customs Provost Marshal, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Sanusi Saulawa, explained that the refresher course was designed to prepare Deputy Comptrollers for the expanded responsibilities of senior leadership. He noted that the initiative reflects the Comptroller-General’s commitment to continuous capacity development, encouraging participants to enhance their leadership skills while maintaining the discipline, professionalism and integrity expected of future managers of the Service.
Participants commended the Comptroller-General for approving the programme, describing it as timely and valuable. They pledged to apply the knowledge gained to strengthen discipline, improve service delivery and uphold the reputation of the Nigeria Customs Service as they take on higher leadership roles nationwide.
