COMPTROLLER ABUBAKAR SAYS HE WAS WILLING TO DIE FOR CUSTOMS SERVICE
The Controller of Nigeria Customs Service, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, has disclosed how he resisted every temptation and remained committed to protecting national integrity in the service, even at the risk of losing his life.
Abubakar made the revelation over the weekend during a special dinner organized by the Stakeholders Forum of Kano/Jigawa States, which celebrated his recent awards and outstanding contributions to the service.
He was recently honored at the Controller General of Customs (CGC) 2025 Awards, receiving accolades including Best Controller of the Year 2025, Most Improved Command Revenue in Import, Most Outstanding Command in Anti-Money Laundering Activities, and Best Public Relations Officer of the Year.
While stakeholders celebrated the achievements, Comptroller Abubakar attributed the honors to the dedication and hard work of his subordinates, noting that the feats were not without personal risk.
“When I assumed duty on the 3rd of February 2025, my policies were widely unpopular. Many did not believe in my programs. I was warned that implementing my decisions could put my life at risk. But I told everyone I was willing to die for customs, for Nigeria, and for what I believe in. Today, I am alive, witnessing the transformation and achievements recorded by you, the business community. I am happy, I am alive,” he said.
Comptroller Abubakar also praised the CGC’s mantra of Consolidation, Innovation, and Collaboration, which he said has transformed the customs service and improved revenue generation and responsiveness.
In separate remarks, stakeholders commended Abubakar’s leadership, highlighting his role in intercepting over $200 million in money laundering, increasing government revenue, and seizing large quantities of Cannabis Sativa, tramadol, and other illicit substances.
Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs, Hassan Usaini, praised the controller’s dedication to national service and pledged legislative support to enhance trade relations.
Mr. Richard Bassey, Director of Kano Free Trade Zone, described Abubakar as a dedicated officer committed to upholding national integrity and urged customs officers to emulate his leadership to sustain these achievements.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by the Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, and Trade, Alh. Shehu Wada Sagagi, said Kano has made significant progress in the fight against smugglers, noting that large-scale seizures have reduced the circulation of illicit substances.
“The controller has seen the challenges, taken action, and delivered results. I am particularly impressed with the seizures of illicit drugs, which have been a serious problem for families in Kano. Efforts like this will help eliminate illicit drugs from Kano and Northern Nigeria. All these achievements should be documented for public reference and to guide future leaders,” Sagagi said.
