The newly appointed zonal coordinator, Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), ACG Babadede, has pledged to enhance trade facilitation and revenue generation.

Mr Babadede, who replaced newly promoted DCG Charles Orbih as zonal coordinator, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, made the commitment on Friday during the official handover ceremony in Lagos.

The Senate has approved a 2025 revenue target of N10 trillion for the Nigeria Customs Service.

Mr Babadede thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, and his management team for entrusting him with the leadership of what he called the service’s “superliner zone.”

He said: “The CGC appointed me ACG of Zone ‘A’ and instructed me to align with his agenda of revenue collection and trade facilitation.”

He stressed that issues compromising national security or public health would not be tolerated under his leadership.

“Zone ‘A’ is the main baby that lays the golden eggs for customs revenue generation,” Mr Babadede said.

He added that Zone ‘A’ is the highest revenue earner for the service and all officers must work together to surpass the 2025 revenue target.

Mr Babadede urged officers to collaborate, maintain integrity, and uphold the ethics of the service, noting that teamwork would help them reach their goals.

While handing over, Mr Orbih expressed gratitude to the comptroller-general for providing clear direction and elevating him to the rank of deputy comptroller-general.

He also praised God and the CGC’s administrative dynamism, which, he said, had significantly improved customs operations nationwide.

Mr Orbih commended Mr Babadede’s past contributions as Port Harcourt controller and lauded comptroller Muhammed Shu’aibu’s commitment to the service as FOU Zone ‘A’ leader.

He described Zone ‘A’ as a hub of excellence, professionalism, and national service, from which the entire customs service draws strength and character.

Mr Orbih praised officers of the zone as “unsung heroes” whose sacrifices have powered the service’s success.

He said serving as Zone ‘A’ coordinator was one of his career’s highest honours, leaving him with lasting relationships, lessons, and memories.

Mr Orbih described Mr Babadede as a leader of exceptional calibre, proven integrity, and deep knowledge of customs operations, urging officers to extend him maximum cooperation.

In his remarks, Comptroller Rolland Nwankwo, speaking on behalf of officers, congratulated Babadede and pledged maximum support to help him achieve the service’s objectives.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by Mr Babadede’s wife, customs officers, stakeholders, and friends of both the outgoing DCG and the incoming ACG.

(NAN)