By Bon Peters
ENUGU/Nigeria: The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Enugu/Anambra/Ebonyi Area Command on Thursday witnessed a formal change of leadership as Comptroller F. A. Bodunde assumed duty, succeeding Comptroller Comfort Senas Ukpanah (Retd.), who bowed out of service after a distinguished tenure.
The handover ceremony, according to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC I B. N. Udey, marked a symbolic exchange of baton between the outgoing and incoming Controllers.
In her valedictory address, Comptroller Ukpanah expressed deep gratitude to God for what she described as a fruitful and peaceful tenure, despite initial security concerns when she assumed office. She said her period of service was defined by stability and unprecedented achievements, particularly in revenue generation.
“One of the most significant milestones recorded during my time here was the attainment of an unprecedented revenue target. This was only possible through the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork of the officers and men of this Command,” Ukpanah stated. She urged her former colleagues to sustain the culture of integrity, selflessness, and unity that contributed to their collective success.
On her part, the new Area Controller, Comptroller Bodunde, said she was humbled to take over from “a sister, mentor, and coach,” pledging to consolidate on her predecessor’s successes in line with the reform agenda of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
She emphasized that revenue generation and trade facilitation will remain top priorities under her watch. “The success of one is the success of all. I urge every officer to work in synergy, ensure transparency in our records, and uphold professionalism at all times,” Bodunde said.
The new Controller further charged officers to serve as brand ambassadors of the Service by demonstrating integrity, discipline, and commitment to duty. She also commended the Customs management for its continued support in staff welfare and promotions, while appreciating her predecessor’s “laudable contributions to the Command.”
Soliciting the full cooperation of officers and men, Bodunde declared her commitment to lifting the Command to greater heights and boosting its revenue profile.
