New Era at Lilypond as Salako Takes Over from Retiring Ariyibi

Victoria Silvanus

A new chapter has begun at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lilypond Export Command, following the retirement of Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi and the appointment of Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Olusola Salako as the Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC).

The leadership transition was formally conducted during a handing-over ceremony held at the Command on Monday, in line with the administrative procedures of the Nigeria Customs Service.
A statement issued by the Command's Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Bukola Olusola-Oke, said the ceremony marked the end of Ariyibi’s tenure and the commencement of Salako’s leadership of the export-focused command.

Addressing officers and stakeholders at the event, Ariyibi expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the management of the Service, officers and men of the Command, and stakeholders for their support and cooperation throughout his service.

He noted that the successes recorded during his tenure were made possible through teamwork, professionalism, discipline, dedication and strong collaboration among officers and stakeholders.

The retiring Comptroller urged personnel of the Command to continue demonstrating commitment and professionalism by extending the same support to the new Acting Customs Area Controller, while sustaining the operational standards and achievements already established.

Taking over the leadership of the Command, Salako paid tribute to his predecessor, describing Ariyibi’s service as dedicated and impactful. He commended the retiring Comptroller for his contributions to the growth and development of the Lilypond Export Command and the Nigeria Customs Service.

Salako pledged to build on the achievements of the Command by providing purposeful and professional leadership aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, ensuring regulatory compliance, strengthening anti-smuggling efforts and deepening stakeholder engagement.

He also called on stakeholders to maintain their cooperation with the Command, stressing that collective support would be crucial to improving operational efficiency and advancing the Command’s contribution to national economic growth.

The Lilypond Export Command plays a strategic role in facilitating Nigeria’s export trade and remains a key component of the Customs Service’s efforts to promote non-oil exports and improve trade competitiveness.

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