In a strategic move to bolster border integrity and operational standards, the Katsina Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a firm directive to its personnel, emphasizing the non-negotiable values of discipline, lawfulness, and professionalism. This initiative underscores the command’s proactive approach to national security and economic stability in a critical frontier region.
The call was made by the Area Controller, Mr. Mohammed Saidu, during a recent inspection tour of officers deployed along the high-traffic Katsina-Jibia border axis—a corridor known for its strategic importance and security challenges. Represented by the acting Deputy Comptroller of Enforcement, ACC Umar Abubakar-Kigo, Saidu’s message was clear: adherence to core values is paramount for mission success.
This inspection was far more than a routine check. It represents a critical component of the NCS’s sustained strategy to enhance border security and operational efficiency. The tour served a dual purpose: to assess compliance with strict operational guidelines and to evaluate the readiness and professionalism of personnel tasked with securing this vital national boundary. In regions like Jibia, where cross-border activities are intense, the conduct of customs officers directly impacts everything from national security to the prevention of smuggling and the facilitation of legitimate trade.
“You are expected to sustain the highest standards of discipline, lawfulness and professionalism,” Saidu stated. “These values are critical to the successful execution of the service’s mandate.” This mandate is multifaceted, encompassing revenue collection, suppression of smuggling, and facilitation of legitimate trade—all of which hinge on disciplined and professional conduct. A lapse in any of these areas can have severe repercussions, including economic leakage, security breaches, and a loss of public trust.
The Controller commended the officers for their existing dedication and vigilance but framed the reinforcement as essential for maintaining and elevating performance. The emphasis on “lawfulness” is particularly significant, acting as a safeguard against corruption and the abuse of power, which can undermine entire institutions. Professionalism, in this context, extends beyond uniformed appearance to include technical competence in risk assessment, ethical decision-making under pressure, and courteous engagement with the public.
Recognizing that effective border management cannot be achieved in isolation, the Area Controller also paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Jibia Local Government Area, Alhaji Surajo Ado. This diplomatic outreach is a best-practice example of inter-agency and community cooperation. Strengthening ties with local authorities fosters intelligence sharing, improves community relations, and creates a unified front against border-related crimes. It transforms the NCS from an external enforcement body into a collaborative partner within the border community ecosystem.
Ultimately, this reinforcement exercise in Katsina is a microcosm of the broader challenges and priorities facing border security agencies globally. It highlights that beyond infrastructure and technology, the human element—characterized by discipline, integrity, and professionalism—remains the most critical line of defense. For residents, traders, and the nation at large, such initiatives are reassuring steps toward more secure borders and a more stable economic environment.
Report by Abbas Bamalli for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Sandra Umeh.
