The newly appointed Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Comptroller Aliyu Gambo, has vowed to crack down on smuggling on the trade value chain.
In a strategic move, Comptroller Gambo, who without further hesitation hit the ground running, has unveiled a reform-driven leadership agenda anchored on a three-point framework of Change Management, Compliance Management, and Reputational Management, which strictly conforms with this year’s CGC’s Conference Theme, “Building Future Partnerships: Lessons From the Customs PACT Conference”.
A New Era of Leadership
Comptroller Gambo’s appointment, widely applauded by colleagues and stakeholders across the nation, marks a new era of leadership in the Nigeria Customs Service. His leadership agenda, no doubt, is focused on promoting professionalism, discipline, and service values within the Nigeria Customs Service.
In the words of Comptroller Gambo, ” the above cardinal point is in tune with the CGC’s directive to officers and men of the service to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, professionalism and capacity building in the discharge of their duties”.
Cracking Down on Smuggling
As expected, the new Controller warned economic saboteurs that they will face the full wrath of the law if caught. He emphasized that FOU Zone A will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to smuggling, and that smugglers will be apprehended and prosecuted.
Promoting Compliance
Aside from the above, Gambo stressed the importance of compliance with relevant regulations and procedures, noting that compliance is not optional, and that those who fail to comply will be made to face the consequences.
Reform Agenda
A peep into the no nonsense Controller’s reform agenda reveals a focus on promoting professionalism, discipline, and service values within the Service. He is known to have always emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in maintaining public trust.
Again, it is believed that the Controller was indeed hinging the above position on what he largely described as the CGC’s standpoint concerning the importance of transparency and adherence to due process in career progression anchored on Competency Based Human Resource to foster a culture of meritocracy.
A Carrot and Stick Approach
He has also declared that FOU Zone A will adopt a “carrot and stick” approach that rewards compliance while decisively sanctioning infractions. This approach is in line with the Comptroller-General of Customs’ broader reform agenda centred on merit, competence, and fairness.
*Importance of Stakeholder Engagement*
Speaking further on the importance of stakeholder engagement in promoting compliance and facilitating trade, Gambo assured that FOU Zone A, will work closely with stakeholders to ensure that trade is facilitated while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
Revenue Collection
No doubt, the importance of revenue collection in supporting the nation’s economy cannot be overemphasized. He assured that FOU Zone A will intensify efforts to collect revenue due to the government, while ensuring that trade is facilitated.
Anti-Smuggling Operations
Economic sabotage is one of the menace bedeviling the economy of the Nigerian nation. Apparently, Comptroller Gambo understands the importance and gains of anti-smuggling operations in protecting the nation’s economy and security as much as he knows the back of his hand. He has assured Nigerians that FOU Zone A will not only intensify efforts to combat saboteurs, but will ensure that it is brought down to zero point, while ensuring that legitimate trade is also facilitated.
Comptroller Aliyu Gambo’s leadership agenda seeks to achieve a paradigm shift in the anti smuggling drive of the NCS. His commitment to cracking down smuggling and criminality will definitely bring about a positive impact on the Service’s operations and reputation.
A Bright Future
The Nigeria Customs Service has a critical role to play in promoting economic growth and development. Comptroller Gambo’s leadership agenda is a step in the right direction, and stakeholders are convinced about the positive impact it has started bringing to his area of responsibility.
A New Beginning
Comptroller Gambo’s appointment marks a new beginning for FOU Zone A.The Nigeria Customs Service has a critical role to play in promoting economic growth and development. Comptroller Gambo’s leadership agenda is a step in the right direction.
The Importance of Accountability
The gallant officer who clearly understood the importance of accountability in maintaining public trust has not minced words in setting his targets. He assured that FOU Zone A will be fair and transparent in its operations and decision-making processes.
The Role of Technology
The Controller also highlighted the importance of modern technology in facilitating trade and promoting compliance. He noted that FOU Zone A will leverage technology to improve its operations and services.
