By Oluwabunmi Ogunjimi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lilypond Export Command, has recorded a leadership change following the retirement of its Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Samuel Olusanya Ariyibi.
Ariyibi formally handed over the affairs of the Command to Deputy Comptroller Olusola O. Salako, who has assumed duty as the Acting CAC. The handing-over ceremony was conducted in line with established administrative procedures of the Service.
In his farewell remarks, Ariyibi expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, the management of the NCS, officers and men of the Command, as well as other stakeholders for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
He attributed the Command’s achievements to teamwork, professionalism, discipline, dedication and effective collaboration among officers and stakeholders.
Ariyibi, who retired after a distinguished career in the Service, urged personnel to extend the same level of commitment and cooperation to the new Acting CAC. He also charged them to sustain the operational standards and gains achieved during his tenure.
He expressed confidence that Salako would build on the existing foundation and further advance the mandate of the Lilypond Export Command.
In his response, the incoming Acting CAC, Deputy Comptroller Olusola Salako, commended Comptroller Ariyibi for his dedicated and meritorious service to the Nigeria Customs Service and his contributions to the growth and development of Lilypond Export Command.
He pledged to provide purposeful, responsive and professional leadership while advancing the core mandates of the Service, particularly in trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, anti-smuggling operations and effective stakeholder engagement.
Deputy Comptroller Salako called for the continued cooperation, discipline and professionalism of all officers and men of the Command, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in achieving the mandate of the Service and the strategic objectives of Lilypond Export Command. He also solicited the continued support and cooperation of stakeholders towards strengthening the Command’s operational effectiveness and contribution to national economic development.
The officers and men of the Command appreciate Comptroller Ariyibi for his distinguished, dedicated and meritorious service to the Service and the nation, and wish him a fulfilling and successful retirement. The Command also welcomes the Acting CAC and wishes him a successful and impactful tenure.
