Naturally, it is someone who is inside a building who would know every nook and cranny of the building. Because they reside fully in the building, they are expected to understand every structural and architectural design, including all the rooms and floors. In fact, walking around the building is very easy for them because of their familiarity and good knowledge of it. The same cannot be said of an outsider entering the building for the first time. One important aspect is that it would take the outsider a long time to master and understand the way to each room, including the visitors’ restroom. This is why a visitor usually needs the assistance of an insider to navigate their way through the building.
No wonder, when in 2015, the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, wanted to create structural changes in the Nigeria Customs Service, he appointed a former military governor to act as the pseudo Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs. President Buhari appointed Hameed Ibrahim Ali, a retired army officer and former Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (2015-2023). His appointment was like a certified product presented to consumers for consumption. Colonel Hameed Ali was imposed on the Nigeria Customs Service without any resistance, either by the consumers or the market, where it was hoisted against any known lawful regulations. Not even the National Assembly raised an eyebrow.
Although his performance could be likened to that of an outsider, he averaged in performance when Nigerians were expecting better results, as we witness today under the leadership of an insider.
Hameed Ali generated revenue of N556 billion, with 1,927 seizures, compared to N486 billion from January to June 2017, in 2018.
Truly, an insider always exhibits traits that complement every performance they achieve. For instance, their performance is a true reflection of the characteristics of an insider who knows the constitutional purpose for establishing the institution known as the Nigeria Customs Service. As a bonafide insider, the appointment of Bashir Wale Adeniyi confirms the truism that an insider is far better in all aspects, both administratively and operationally. His tactics and operational strategies are far superior and more result-oriented than those of retired Colonel Hameed Ali. Operationally, Colonel Ali’s (Rtd) revenue collection methods cannot compare with those of the current Comptroller General, Mr. Adeniyi, whose revenue strategy has surpassed that of past leaders of the Nigeria Customs Service. According to a recently published revenue collection report, the Service’s mid-year performance indicated remarkable success in the first half of 2024. With a half-year target of 2.54 trillion, the Service collected 2.74 trillion, surpassing the target by 8% and marking a 127% increase over the previous year’s revenue.
The leadership of an insider, CG Adeniyi, has been a significant factor. Apart from generating huge revenue, CG Adeniyi’s strategic collaborative efforts with other security agencies have further marked him out as a very good insider who thoroughly observed the noticeable administrative and operational flaws of past leaders of the Nigeria Customs Service, with a renewed vigor to correct and improve on them. This is evident in a recent report indicating a massive success in a collaborative operation carried out between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). According to the report, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command intercepted a large consignment of Cannabis Indica weighing 51.25 kg, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N256,250,000.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Joy Edeldouk, disclosed that the items intercepted on September 11, 2024, were seized by her officers working closely with the NDLEA. She noted that the act violated the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, Section 55, Subsections 1c and 1f. She said, “This interception is a testament to our continued dedication and commitment to safeguarding our borders from the importation of illicit and harmful substances.” Such resolve and determination can only be experienced with an insider who is not only patriotic but also carries out their duties with extra determination. These are the characteristics of an insider who would not betray their country for any gratification. Since taking over the mantle of leadership, Mr. Adeniyi has portrayed himself as a thoroughbred leader who studied past leaders of the institution. For instance, seminars and specialized conferences, which were not very common in the Nigeria Customs Service in the past, have become frequent under his leadership. These venues are where new ideas are exchanged for better administrative and operational efficiency, as the saying goes, “Iron sharpens iron.” Indeed, with such recorded operational success in the past year, it is obvious that illegal importation of illicit drugs will be curtailed. Also, the use of drugs by criminals, including terrorists, will definitely reduce, while drug barons will be forced into other, better trades.
During one such conference held on June 25, 2023, Mr. Adeniyi titled his message “Embracing a New Era of Excellence.” At the conference, he urged Customs officers to see his appointment as a call to duty, adding that it signifies a great responsibility to serve the nation as trade facilitators and enforcers of government policy.
He promised to foster new trade and enforce compliance; these are the traits of an insider.
Today, the Nigeria Customs Service has regained its international recognition due to its operational discipline and professionalism. That is why an insider is always the best in performance and trust.
Okezie can be reached at 08111113007 and via email: BenOkezie17@gmail.com
