Customs College Holds Reunion as CGC Adeniyi Honours Former Directing Staff


The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, played host to a three-day reunion beginning Monday, June 31, 2025, celebrating its past and present Directing Staff in a landmark event that recognised their instrumental role in shaping the intellectual backbone of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The reunion kicked off with a Regimental Dinner at the College cafeteria, bringing together a distinguished mix of retired and serving senior Customs officers, military personnel, and invited guests. The event was aimed at fostering unity, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose among current and former faculty of the College.

In his keynote address, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who graced the dinner as Special Guest of Honour, recalled his formative years at the College where he served both as Directing Staff and later as Commandant.

“The College played a central role in my professional development. It instilled in me the importance of training, mentorship, and strategic thinking in Customs operations,” CGC Adeniyi said.


He lauded the dedication of former instructors and acknowledged the presence of several past Commandants and Deputy Commandants. In a significant policy announcement, the CGC pledged greater institutional support for Directing Staff, stating:

“We are committed to supporting the welfare of Directing Staff. I will request that your names be recorded so that those who serve here are recognised and rewarded through strategic redeployments to commands and departments where their expertise can further benefit the Service.”


The second day featured a panel session and address by retired Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Chide, a former Commandant, who reaffirmed the CGC’s vision of preserving institutional memory and fostering inclusive recognition.

 “When I served as Commandant of this College, I witnessed first-hand the professionalism of our instructors. This reunion is a fitting tribute to their efforts,” ACG Chide said. “The CGC remains committed to strengthening this institution and uplifting its people.”



Current Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General Oluyomi Adebakin, described the event as a strategic reconnection of the College’s instructor network.

 “We’ve coordinated numerous courses over the years, but rarely do we pause to appreciate those working behind the scenes,” she said. “This get-together bridges the past and present. We’re sending a clear message to the Customs community: your service here is not forgotten.”


Speaking on behalf of participants, former Directing Staff Comptroller Haniel Hadison shared his reflections:

“Being back here brings a deep sense of fulfilment. This is where we trained minds and shaped leaders. It’s encouraging to see that spirit preserved and celebrated.”


The reunion concluded with a tour of the College facilities and a farewell lunch, leaving many participants with a renewed sense of pride in their contributions to the growth of the institution.

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