The Nigeria Customs Service, Area II Command, Port Harcourt witnessed a change of guard as Comptroller Aliyu M. Alkali formally assumed office as the 26th Customs Area Controller.
He succeeded Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, who was recently promoted.
According to a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Theophilus Peter Duniya, the ceremony drew top officials including the Zonal Coordinator, Zone C, ACG Kamal Mohammed the Customs Area Controller of Port Harcourt I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku; heads of security and regulatory agencies; terminal operators; freight forwarders; and other stakeholders, who warmly received the new CAC.
In his farewell remarks, outgoing Customs Area Controller, ACG Mohammed Babandede, expressed gratitude to officers of the Command, sister agencies, associations at the Onne Port, and port management for their cooperation during his tenure.
He attributed the achievements recorded under his watch to synergy among stakeholders and urged them to extend the same support to his successor.
The Zonal Coordinator, Zone C, ACG Kamal Mohammed, praised Babandede’s service, describing him as “a distinguished leader, who until recently served as our revered Customs Area Controller, had his tenure nothing short of dedication, vision, and resilience; leaving an indelible mark in the annals of the Command’s history.” He wished him continued success, greater fulfilment, and divine guidance.
The outgoing CAC, gave a warm welcome to Comptroller Alkali and noted that “the task before him is both noble and demanding.” He added, “We implore you to build on the solid legacies left behind by your predecessor, while bringing in fresh ideas and innovations that will further advance the mission of the Service. Together, we look forward to a new chapter of growth, discipline, and excellence under your leadership.”
In his acceptance speech, Comptroller Aliyu Alkali pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. He emphasized his mandate to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government, and safeguard public safety.
He assured stakeholders of his commitment to consolidating the gains recorded by his predecessor, while also calling for continuous collaboration.
“My assignment is to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government and ensure public safety,” he stated.
He further urged stakeholders to align with Nigeria’s development goals, promising to sustain the Command’s role in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and the prevention of economic sabotage.