Customs chief marks IWD with surprise event for female officers

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has marked the 2026 International Women’s Day with a surprise appreciation event for female officers, recognising their contributions to the Service.

The event, held on Friday at the Customs House in Maitama, Abuja, brought together officers across ranks as well as members of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association. Attendees were presented with roses in acknowledgement of what officials described as their resilience, commitment and service.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Adeniyi said the initiative was deliberately designed to depart from routine ceremonies and highlight the role of women whose efforts are often overlooked.

“I know you did not come here expecting this. That is exactly the point. Too often, recognition comes only when it is convenient,” he said.

He noted that while the NCS operates within a paramilitary structure guided by tradition and hierarchy, the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the role of women within the institution.

Mr Adeniyi described female officers as central to the Service’s operations, commending their professionalism and contributions across various formations nationwide.

He added that the initiative was aimed at recognising outstanding women and reinforcing a culture that values dedication and hard work regardless of gender.

In her remarks, the President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association, Kikelomo Adeniyi, said the event underscored the importance of celebrating women within the Customs community.

She commended the Comptroller-General’s support for women, saying it had created opportunities for growth and inclusion within the Service.

Mrs Adeniyi also highlighted the association’s role in welfare and empowerment programmes, noting that investing in women remains key to building stronger institutions and communities.