The Nigeria Customs Service has committed 4% of its annual wage bill to fund its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, “Customs Care,” as part of its efforts to give back to communities.
Speaking at the launch of Customs Care in Abuja on Thursday, Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi explained that the allocation amounts to 50% of each officer’s one-month salary, demonstrating the agency’s dedication to nation-building beyond revenue collection and border control.
“Following extensive consultations with the NCS management, I am pleased to disclose that the Service has committed to earmark approximately 4% of our annual wage bill (equivalent to 50% of each officer’s one-month salary) to fund this initiative,” Adeniyi announced.
‘Customs Care’ Prioritises Education The initiative’s first phase is centred on education, and Government Secondary School (GSS), located in Wuse Zone 3, Abuja, is the site of its first project.
Adeniyi outlined the NCS educational support program, which includes: Adopting schools in its operational areas, Conducting needs assessments to identify gaps, Providing learning materials and scholarships and Rehabilitating critical infrastructure
Recognizing security as a major concern, the NCS has commissioned the installation of CCTV cameras at the school. Additionally, the agency will install solar-powered streetlights throughout the school premises to enhance safety.
“This flagship project at GSS Wuse Zone 3 follows this model, where we have identified security infrastructure as the school’s priority based on consultations with authorities,” Adeniyi said.
“In response, we have commissioned the installation of CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights throughout the compound, while our technical team has been tasked with renovating the school’s auditorium, in addition to providing learning materials to all students.”
The launch at GSS Wuse Zone 3 is only the beginning, as the Customs Service plans to extend similar interventions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Adeniyi announced that the NCS would adopt one school in each Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), tailoring programs to meet the unique needs of each institution.
“Our selection of GSS Wuse Zone 3 to kick-start this CSR and adopt-a-school initiative is not coincidental – it stems from our historical connection as former neighbors.
“We felt a great sense of obligation to return the favour to the community that had welcomed and helped us during our early years here.”
He also underlined that rather than being one-time fixes, the school adoptions are long-term commitments that guarantee sustainable development.
“We have placed education at the forefront of our efforts because we understand that fostering human capital is essential for enduring economic development and the overall wealth of the nation.”
The Customs Care Initiative corresponds with President Bola Tinubu’s top eight focus areas, underscoring the NCS’s commitment to the advancement of the country beyond its core responsibilities.
“Through the Customs Care Initiative, we aim to make meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s educational sector as well as demonstrate that NCS is committed to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight priority areas,” Adeniyi said.
By implementing Customs Care, the Nigeria Customs Service is establishing a basis for long-term community and educational development in addition to border security.