The Nigeria Customs Service has undergone a major restructuring following the approval of new management appointments and special promotions by the Nigeria Customs Service Board during its 64th regular meeting held on Tuesday.

The meeting, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, approved the elevation of five Deputy Comptroller-Generals and eight Assistant Comptroller-Generals — a development regarded as one of the most significant leadership overhauls in recent years.

In a statement on Wednesday, Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada said the new appointments were made in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and the Federal Character principles as outlined in Section 14(4) of the Constitution.

According to the statement, “The Nigeria Customs Service Board has approved the appointment of new management members and special promotions following its 64th Regular Meeting held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Key decisions relating to leadership structure and personnel development were reached during the meeting.”

Edun, who presided over the session, confirmed the appointment of five Deputy Comptroller-Generals—Baba Imam (North-East), Isah Umar (North-West), Tijjani Abe (North-West), Timi Bomodi (South-South), and Oluyomi Adebakin (South-West). Their promotion follows the retirement of several senior officers and is expected to strengthen strategic leadership across major formations.

The board also approved the appointment of eight new Assistant Comptroller-Generals: C.G. Ogbonna (South-East), I. Abba-Aji (North-East), G.M. Haruna (South-South), E.J. Edelduok (South-South), G. Gaura (North-West), I. Isyaku (North-West), M.S. Shuaibu (North-Central), and M.D. Malah (North-East).

The board noted that these appointments would enhance compliance management, improve policy implementation, and reinforce the Service’s preparedness in the areas of trade facilitation, border security, and revenue generation.

In addition to the senior appointments, the board approved Special Promotions for 10 officers in recognition of what it described as “exceptional professionalism, leadership, and outstanding service performance.”

Those honoured include:
Comptrollers: A.C. Fanyam, G.M. Shidali
Deputy Comptrollers: S. Omofoma, O.A. Oladepo, A.Y. Musa, A. Ogboru, A.A. Maiwada
Assistant Comptroller: C.N. Essien, H. Aliyu
Deputy Superintendent: A.S. Shofadekan

The board explained that Special Promotions are reserved for officers whose contributions have significantly improved Customs operations, enhanced revenue generation, or strengthened national security.

Edun reaffirmed the board’s commitment to cultivating a motivated, forward-looking workforce capable of supporting the far-reaching reforms ushered in by the new Customs Act. “The Service must continually adapt to global trade dynamics, strengthen its internal systems, and ensure Nigeria’s borders remain secure,” he said.

These promotions come amid ongoing reforms within the Customs Service, including automation of processes, restructuring of commands, and intensified anti-smuggling operations. According to the board, the new leadership appointments are part of continuous efforts to deepen succession planning, improve operational efficiency, and boost staff morale.

“The Service must remain responsive to evolving trade, security, and administrative challenges,” the board stated.