Kano/Jigawa Customs Comptroller Seeks Stronger Ties with Journalists

The Comptroller of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, has called for enhanced collaboration between the Customs Service and journalists in promoting national development and transparency.

He made the call on Thursday while receiving executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, who paid him a courtesy visit at his office.

Describing the visit as timely and encouraging, Comptroller Abubakar emphasized the need for sustained media engagement, noting that the Comptroller General of Customs recognizes the vital role of journalists in informing the public and shaping national discourse.

“There is already a cordial relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and the NUJ, and we are committed to strengthening it further,” he said.

The Comptroller, who assumed office in February, urged journalists to undertake more investigative reporting to better understand the ongoing reforms and operational developments within the Customs Service. He highlighted the transformation of the service, especially in areas of transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

He also appealed for media support in raising public awareness on issues such as the fight against drug abuse and social vices, and encouraged the press to showcase the positive contributions and statutory responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Service.

Reaffirming his commitment to ethical leadership, Comptroller Abubakar stressed his zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption and expressed his willingness to partner with the media in the interest of the public.

In his remarks, the Secretary of the NUJ Kano State Council, Comrade Abubakar Shehu Kwaru, said the visit was aimed at reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the union and the Customs Service.

He stated that the current NUJ leadership was elected in August 2024 and is committed to upholding journalistic ethics and providing accurate information to the public.

“One of our core responsibilities as journalists is to educate and enlighten citizens on issues of national importance,” Kwaru said.

He acknowledged the critical role of the Customs Service in enhancing national revenue and requested support for the use of the NUJ Conference Hall for Customs-related public engagements.

Kwaru assured the Comptroller that journalists in Kano would continue to demonstrate professionalism and integrity in their reporting.