His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has emphasised the importance of the Nigeria Customs Service to the nation’s socio-economic and security development.
The Sultan of Sokoto made this remark at his palace while receiving the new Area Controller of Customs in charge of Sokoto and Zamfara States, Aliyu Isa Ndako, who paid a courtesy visit to the Sultanate Council.
The revered traditional ruler commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its unwavering commitment to revenue generation, border security and the facilitation of legitimate trade, describing the institution as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic stability.
He further praised the Service for its impressive strides in boosting national revenue, a critical source of funding for public services and infrastructure, noting that he was particularly impressed by the recent revenue performance figures released by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the outgoing year.
According to him, the capacity of the Customs Service to generate consistent revenue has enabled the government to embark on crucial projects for the welfare of Nigerians.
His eminence also called on Nigerians to support the Customs Service by adhering to customs regulations and cooperating with officers at border posts stressing the need for a collaborative effort between the government, security agencies, and citizens to combat smuggling, corruption, and other challenges facing the agency.
The Sultan added that the Sultanate Council is always ready to partner any agency that have direct bearing to the development of the country.
Earlier, the team leader of the visit and the Area Controller in charge of Sokoto and Zamfara states Aliyu Isa Ndako said the purpose of the visit was to seek blessing and support of the Sultan to enable him discharged his duty effectively.
Aliyu Isa Ndako maintained that the Sultan commendations serves as a timely reminder of the indispensable role customs service holds in the nation’s ongoing quest for sustainable development.
He pledged to ensure the economic activities of the Area under his control better.
NASIR MALALI
