COWA Takes Health, Sustainability, Empowerment to Seme Border

.As ACG Babandede Flags Off ‘Customs Care’ CSR Initiative

ZAINAB JUNAID

As part of effort to support host communities and promote environmental sustainability, the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), led by its National President, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi has launched green border initiative at the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service.

Speaking during the event, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi described the Green Border Initiative as an environmental and economic empowerment project aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and empowering women and youth across border communities.

She said, “This initiative is not just about planting trees; it’s about planting opportunities. We are turning waste into wealth, giving our women and youth the skills to thrive in a greener economy”.

Mrs Adeniyi hinted that the association would forge strategic partnerships to expand the empowerment program globally.

The event also featured the official flag-off of the Customs Care Initiative- a medical outreach program by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, (ACG) Zone ‘A’, Mohammed Babandede, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD.

While launching the medical outreach programe, ACG Babandede, commended the Command and COWA for aligning their humanitarian efforts with the CGC’s vision.

“What we are witnessing today is a reflection of a new era in Customs; one that values not only border security but also human and environmental security. This initiative should extend to all commands nationwide,” he stated.

In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga appreciated the support of the COWA National President and the Customs Headquarters for identifying Seme as one of the launch point.

He explained that the Customs Care Initiative will provide free medical consultations, laboratory tests, medications, and eyeglasses for over 1,000 beneficiaries, including Screenings for breast cancer, hepatitis B and C and blood pressure checks.

“Beyond trade facilitation, we are touching lives and supporting the communities that host us. Every life improved today strengthens the bond between Customs and our people,” Comptroller Adenuga said.

Also speaking, Comptroller (Dr.) Saadatu Lafia Baba from the Customs Medical Headquarters, Abuja, outlined the health services available and emphasized the CGC’s dedication to wellness through proactive medical education and first aid training across commands.

The twin initiatives underscore the Service’s resolve in addressing community needs beyond its core mandate, and also demonstrate its commitment to community welfare, environmental sustainability and regional cooperation, bringing together Officers, families, sister agencies, and local communities in a collective drive for impact.

The event featured Coconut Tree planting by the COWA President, empowerment of widows and women in the border community with financial support and tools for self-reliance as well as commissioning of solar-powered streetlights and the remodeled Officers’ Mess by the Assistant Comptroller General Zone A Lagos.

Beneficiaries of the program include- Benin Republic Customs officials, traditional rulers, Local Government Chairmen, other sister agencies, and captain of industries.

The twin launch symbolised the Nigeria Customs Service’s holistic approach to service, sustainability and social impact.