Kano/Jigawa Customs Command Records Smooth Leadership Transition…Sustains Revenue Growth Drive
Kano, Nigeria | January 1, 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Kano/Jigawa Area Command has recorded a seamless leadership transition following the assumption of duty by the new Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Usman Adamu.
The formal handover ceremony took place on Tuesday, 31 December 2025, marking the end of the tenure of Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, who proceeded on retirement after 35 years of meritorious service to the nation.
According to a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Tahir Balarabe, the appointment of DC Adamu represents a smooth continuation of leadership focused on consolidating the Command’s operational efficiency and revenue performance.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Customs Area Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him. He described the transition as a generational shift, noting that he benefitted immensely from the mentorship, guidance and leadership of his predecessor.
DC Adamu reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service, with emphasis on revenue generation, trade facilitation and anti-smuggling operations. He pledged to sustain the Command’s upward revenue trajectory through intelligence-driven enforcement, stakeholder engagement and improved operational efficiency.
Describing the Kano/Jigawa Area Command as strategic to national and economic development, the Acting CAC assured stakeholders of enhanced service delivery across critical operational hubs, including the Kano Free Trade Zone, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, the Inland Dry Port and bonded terminals within the Command’s area of responsibility.
“Our goal is to make these facilities more user-friendly and efficient in order to encourage legitimate trade, attract investment and contribute meaningfully to economic growth,” he stated.
DC Adamu also identified officers’ welfare and inter-agency collaboration as key priorities, pledging to advocate for capacity-building and developmental programmes from the NCS Headquarters, while strengthening cooperation with the Kano and Jigawa State Governments and other sister agencies.
In his farewell remarks, the outgoing Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, reflected on the transformation recorded by the Command during his tenure. He noted that the formation had evolved into a modern and vibrant Command where officers discharge their responsibilities with professionalism and confidence.
He disclosed that as of Tuesday, 30 December 2025, the Command generated ₦112.7 billion in revenue, an increase from the ₦102.5 billion recorded in 2024. He further highlighted a remarkable improvement in collections from the Kano Free Trade Zone, which rose from ₦2.6 billion to ₦19.6 billion within the same period.
Comptroller Abubakar concluded by offering prayers for the success of his successor and expressing gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, the Management of the Service and all stakeholders for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
