The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to support 50,000 students across the country with educational materials in 2025, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, “Customs Cares.” This was disclosed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, during the commissioning of the newly renovated Christ Assembly Nursery and Primary School in Araromi, located in the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The school renovation project was carried out by the Tincan Island Port Command in partnership with the NCS Headquarters in Abuja. The initiative aims to provide students and teachers in the community with a more conducive learning environment. Adeniyi revealed that out of the 50,000-student target, over 12,000 students have already benefitted, including 5,000 in Lagos. He noted that 2,000 students were presented with educational items on the day of the commissioning.
According to Adeniyi, the Customs Service remains committed to improving lives beyond its core mandate, pledging continued support in areas such as healthcare, ICT, sports, the creative industry, and social welfare. He emphasized that Customs is not in competition with other government agencies, but acknowledges the importance of giving back to host communities, which he described as vital partners in national development.
Addressing the pupils, Adeniyi encouraged them to take their studies seriously and use the upgraded facilities wisely. He also promised continued support for the school and praised the efforts of officers and men of the Tincan Island Command, along with other stakeholders who contributed to the success of the project.
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller of Tincan Island Command, Frank Onyeka, expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful initiative. He also acknowledged the valuable support of the Command’s stakeholders in bringing the project to life.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Tolani Ali-Balogun, commended the Customs Service for complementing the efforts of the state government in the education sector. He assured that the Universal Basic Education Commission in the state would ensure proper maintenance of the renovated school. He also called on parents and community leaders to contribute to the sustainability of the project.
The headmistress of the school, Mrs. Esther Ogunfuyi, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Customs Service for their generosity and commitment to education. She described the renovation as a significant milestone that reflects a strong belief in the potential of the pupils and a dedication to making a lasting impact on their lives. She said the transformation went beyond physical upgrades, symbolizing a deeper commitment to quality education and continuous partnership with the school.
