Bridging Institutions With Next- Gen Leaders: Customs Hosts Excursion Visits

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has continued to deploy strategies to enhance public understanding of its statutory responsibilities, this time building a positive relationship with younger generations by encouraging visits from educational institutions.

Facilitated by the Public Relations Unit, the Service played host to Students of International Relations from Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) on Tuesday, 8 July 2025.

This was followed by an excursion visit from the 400-level students of Mass Communication and Media Studies from Bingham University on Wednesday, 9 July 2025.

The National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada engaging the Students on the Service’s core mandates.

During the visits, the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, welcomed the students on behalf of the Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi.

He delivered an informative session on the Service’s core functions, which include revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and trade facilitation.

AC Maiwada emphasised that the engagement aimed to provide students with first-hand insight into the operations, structure, and strategic functions of the Service within the context of international trade and border management.

Cross Section of the students during the session

The Service image maker highlighted the significance of building bridges between institutions and the next generation of leaders. “The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to promoting knowledge sharing and public trust,” he said. “Engaging with students of international relations is vital because the future of Customs and global trade lies in the strength of informed partnerships and cross-sector understanding.”

He also elaborated on the Service’s strategic alignment with global customs standards through its collaboration with the World Customs Organisation (WCO).

A key highlight of the visit was an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students explored the practical applications of international relations in Customs operations.

Discussions also centred on the implementation of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, a flagship trade facilitation initiative that enhances compliance and security in the supply chain.

Following the interactive session, the Deputy National Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Titus Omajali, led the students on a guided tour of critical Departments and Units within the Customs Headquarters.

The tour featured demonstrations of modern digital platforms and tools deployed by the Service to strengthen efficiency, transparency, and cross-border cooperation.

This initiative is expected to foster greater understanding of the Agency and potentially inspire some students to consider careers in public service.