The Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit Zone C in Owerri has witnessed a change of leadership, with Deputy Comptroller of Customs Farouk Nadaniya assuming office as Acting Comptroller.
Nadaniya took over from Comptroller Bishir Abdullahi Balogun, who retired from service, during a handover ceremony held at the unit’s headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, on Friday, September 25, 2026.
The new Acting Comptroller was received by officers and personnel of the unit before being introduced to the various heads of units.
In his farewell address, Balogun thanked officers for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
He reminded them that retirement awaited every officer and advised personnel to prepare for life after service from the moment they joined the Customs Service.
Balogun urged officers to remain diligent and committed to their duties, noting that the unit’s achievements were made possible through teamwork.
He also appealed to the officers to extend the same support to Nadaniya as he assumed responsibility for the unit.
Speaking during the handover, Nadaniya expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to serve and thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for finding him suitable for the assignment.
He described his appointment as more than a change of leadership, saying it represented a renewed call to service, responsibility and accountability.
Nadaniya highlighted the strategic importance of the Federal Operations Unit Zone C and its role in advancing the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
He said the unit was critical to anti-smuggling operations, revenue protection, trade facilitation and national security in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
The Acting Comptroller urged officers to remain professional, firm and uncompromising in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.
He commended Balogun and the officers for the unit’s achievements, attributing its progress to sacrifice, professionalism, teamwork, courage and commitment.
Nadaniya specifically charged patrol-team leaders to remain disciplined, vigilant and accountable.
He requested the cooperation of all personnel in implementing the strategic vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, particularly in modernisation, operational efficiency, compliance and improved customs procedures.