Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, on Thursday, read the Riot Act to the newly-inaugurated members of the NCS Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).
He read the Riot Act to the new ACTU members at the Nigeria Customs Headquarters in Abuja shortly after the inauguration, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance integrity and transparency in operations of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The initiative followed the recent partnership between the NCS and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
CGC Adeniyi was represented at the inauguration of the new ACTU members by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG) in charge of Enforcement, Investigation and Inspection, Aliyu Alajogun.
CGC Adeniyi, addressing the ICPC delegation, emphasised the importance of tackling corruption and other related offences head-on.
“We are tasked with ensuring that our operations are free from corruption and that we uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in all our dealings to ensure a far-reaching impact on our economic stability and international reputation,” he said.
He urged the newly-inaugurated ACTU members to adhere to the standards of their new roles, adding, “You are the frontline defenders against corruption and environmental degradation.
“Each of you has been selected for your expertise, integrity, and dedication to public service. Together, you will lead initiatives that foster accountability and restore public trust.”
The CGC continued: “As you embark on this journey, always remember that your efforts contribute to the NCS and the larger objective of preserving our environment for future generations.
“I urge you to embrace collaboration with other stakeholders, leverage technology, and enact innovative strategies to combat environmental crimes.”
On behalf of the ICPC, Olusegun Adigun, Acting Director of the System Study and Review Department, praised the CGC for his commitment to enhancing the transparency and integrity of the Service through this partnership, which led to the inauguration of the new ACTU members.
“I must commend the Comptroller-General of Customs for today’s inauguration,” he remarked. “It is hoped that this event will empower the unit to deliver on its mandate, which includes periodic staff training on anti-corruption and the examination of system processes.”
Adigun charged NCS ACTU members to maintain integrity, exercise their duties responsibly and avoid any form of oppression as they fulfil the strategic roles expected of them.
He expressed the ICPC gratitude to the NCS for making the event a reality. He added: “We hope that achieving our collective vision will assist in building strong institutions for the overall good of our great nation.”
The newly-inaugurated ACTU Chairman, Comptroller of Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), Comptroller Emmanuel Osogba, pledged to implement policies aimed at enhancing the transparency of NCS operations across the Service formations, while maintaining its standards.
“Our focus will be on establishing clear guidelines for transparency, enhancing mechanisms for reporting misconduct, and engaging with different departments and units within the Service to foster trust and participation.
“Together, we can create a legacy of integrity and transparency that engenders a positive perception among the public and improves our rating on the transparency and integrity index—a legacy that future generations will cherish,” Comptroller Osogba said.
The newly-inaugurated ACTU members took the Oath of Allegiance, administered by Nkem Ezenwa, Director of the Anti-Corruption Unit. Their tenure will span three years, after which a new regime will be appointed.
