By Anthony Nwachukwu
The new Customs Area Controller at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, Mr. Ali Ibrahim, has solicited the support of his officers and men to surpass the unit’s record of huge seizures and revenue from Debit Notes (DN).
Ibrahim, who addressed his principal officers on assuming office in Owerri, congratulated his predecessor, Mr. Yusuf Lawal, on his retirement and prayed God’s blessings in his future endeavours.
He pledged unwavering commitment to the fight against smuggling and called on officers and men of the unit to cooperate with him for best results, while assuring of his commitment to their welfare.
“I congratulate my friend and brother on his successful retirement and pray God to grant everyone of us the grace to peacefully retire in good health,” the Command Public Relations Officer, Mr. Jerry Attah, quoted him to say.
“I also thank the Comptroller General and his management team for the opportunity to serve, and I pledge my commitment to service in line with my constitutional mandate.
“May I use this opportunity to solicit maximum cooperation from our men and officers, to ensure compliance with the current import and export guidelines.”
Ibrahim warned smugglers that with the unit’s planned water-tight security, FOUC will be uncomfortable for their illicit activities.
He further charged journalists on positive and objective reporting, while pledging readiness to synergize with them for the overall good of the unit, NCS and the country.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Controller in charge of Administration, Mr. Sunday Opakanmi, described the immediate past controller, Lawal, as a God-fearing, astute and friendly father figure whose achievements were written in gold.
He prayed God to grant him long life and peace of mind to enable him enjoy his retirement.
Likewise, Assistant Comptroller in charge of Aba/Eleme patrol base, Mr. Joseph Adelaja, prayed God’s blessings on the new controller and wished him a successful time in the zone.
Also, the officer in charge of Port-Harcourt Information Patrol Team, Mr. Ibrahim Usman, pledged support to the new head. He urged men and officers of the unit to maximally cooperate with the new leadership to ensure spectacular seizures, especially at this ember period.