The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Lagos, Mohammed Shuaibu, has decorated 186 officers who benefited from the latest promotion exercise in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Speaking at the ceremony held at the unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Shuaibu warmly welcomed guests, stakeholders, and officers, congratulating the newly promoted personnel on their “well-deserved elevation.”
He described the occasion as a landmark in the history of the unit, stressing that the promotions were not merely about new ranks but a recognition of hard work, loyalty, and patriotism. “The promotions being celebrated here today are not just titles conferred; they are a reflection of your commitment to excellence, your patriotism, and your steadfast service to the Nigeria Customs Service and to our great nation,” he said.
Shuaibu commended the officers for their diligence, integrity, courage, and professionalism, adding that their advancement was a reward for hard work. He, however, reminded them that higher ranks come with greater responsibility.
“This is not just a step up in rank—it is a call to higher standards of leadership and accountability,” he noted.
He urged the officers to wear their new ranks with humility, lead by example, and serve as role models. “True leadership is not about titles or positions; it is about service, empathy, and dedication to a cause greater than oneself,” he said.
To those who were not promoted, Shuaibu encouraged patience and resilience. “Promotion is not a race; it is a journey. Continue to serve with commitment and integrity. Your time will come. Promotion ultimately comes from God, and your efforts do not go unnoticed,” he assured.
The Comptroller recalled that during the 63rd Regular Meeting of the NCS Board, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, 3,312 senior officers were promoted. Similarly, 202 junior officers were elevated at the Service’s 6th Management Meeting held on August 29, 2025.
Giving a breakdown of the 186 promotions in FOU Zone A, Shuaibu announced:
7 officers from Assistant Comptroller to Deputy Comptroller
6 from Chief Superintendent to Assistant Comptroller
22 from Superintendent to Chief Superintendent
27 from Deputy Superintendent to Superintendent
23 from Assistant Superintendent I to Deputy Superintendent
42 from Assistant Superintendent II to Assistant Superintendent I
48 from Inspector to Assistant Superintendent II
11 from Assistant Inspector to Inspector
In his closing remarks, the Comptroller reminded the officers that promotion is “a checkpoint on the long path of service,” urging them to aspire to greater heights and contribute more to the Service and the nation.
“Once again, I congratulate all the newly promoted officers. May you continue to bring honour to yourselves, to this unit, and to the Nigeria Customs Service at large,” he concluded.
The event ended with prayers for continued success and appreciation to all attendees.
