By Bon Peters in Port Harcourt
OWERRI/Nigeria: The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone C of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Owerri, has a new acting head following the retirement of Comptroller Bishir Abdullahi Balogun and the appointment of Deputy Comptroller Farouk Nadaniya to lead the unit.
The leadership transition took place on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the unit’s headquarters in Owerri, where Nadaniya formally assumed responsibility from the retired comptroller. The development was contained in a statement signed by the unit’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs R. Nche. The same details have been reported by other outlets, confirming the handover date and the appointment.
The ceremony began with the reception of the new Acting Comptroller by officers and men of the unit, followed by the introduction of heads of the various units.
In his farewell remarks, Balogun expressed appreciation to personnel for their support and cooperation during his tenure, noting that retirement was an inevitable stage in every officer’s career.
He urged Customs personnel to begin preparing for retirement from the time they join the Service, while also encouraging them to remain diligent and committed to their responsibilities.
Balogun attributed the achievements recorded by the unit during his tenure to teamwork and called on the officers to extend the same support and cooperation to his successor.
Taking over the leadership, Nadaniya expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to assume what he described as an important responsibility. He also thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management of the Service for entrusting him with the assignment.
The new Acting Comptroller said his assumption of office represented more than a change in personnel, describing it as a renewed responsibility to serve with accountability and commitment.
He highlighted the strategic role of FOU Zone C in the operations of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in combating smuggling, protecting government revenue, facilitating legitimate trade and supporting national security.
Nadaniya therefore charged officers to maintain professionalism, vigilance and discipline in carrying out their statutory duties.
He also acknowledged the achievements recorded under Balogun, attributing them to sacrifice, professionalism, teamwork, courage and commitment by the retired comptroller and other personnel.
The Acting Comptroller specifically urged patrol team leaders to remain disciplined, vigilant and accountable in their operations.
He further sought the cooperation of officers in advancing the strategic direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, particularly in modernisation, operational efficiency, compliance and improved Customs procedures.
The transition marks the latest change in leadership at FOU Zone C, with Balogun having assumed command of the unit in March 2025 following the retirement of Comptroller Micheal Ugbagu.
