By Adenike Dada
In a bold demonstration of institutional self-reliance, the Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded a transformative in-house training programme aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and grooming future leaders from within.
The week-long exercise, which took place between Monday, October 13 and Friday, October 17, 2025, targeted senior officers across various departments and was designed to deepen professional knowledge using internal resources — a move many have described as both cost-effective and strategically visionary.
At the heart of the initiative was Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, who not only spearheaded the programme but also facilitated key sessions, including a detailed module on Physical Examination. His hands-on involvement underscored the Command’s commitment to leading by example.
“We have within our ranks a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be harnessed to build capacity,” Onyeka stated at the opening ceremony. “This training is an investment in our people and our future. It is not about titles or ranks — it’s about preparing every officer to perform at the highest standard.”
He further announced that the Command would soon roll out a similar initiative for junior officers, ensuring that capacity development reaches every layer of the workforce.
Unlike typical trainings that rely on external consultants, this programme drew facilitators from within the Command — a move that allowed for tailored, context-specific content. Topics ranged from Risk Management, Evidence Exploitation, and Customs Valuation, to Reputation Management, Code of Conduct, and Customs Administration.
Sessions were reportedly practical, scenario-driven, and closely aligned with real-time challenges officers face on the job.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many officers expressing appreciation for the peer-led format. Officers said learning from colleagues who understand the peculiarities of their roles made the sessions more relatable and actionable.
Assistant Controller Rose Bonat of the Transire Unit was particularly enthusiastic about the training.
“This wasn’t just theory — it was practical, relevant, and empowering,” she said. “I gained fresh insights into updated standard operating procedures that will significantly improve my effectiveness.”
Beyond the immediate benefits, the training has sparked conversations about the future of capacity building within the Nigeria Customs Service and the broader public sector. By maximizing internal human capital, the Command has demonstrated that impactful training does not always require external intervention.
In his closing remarks, Comptroller Onyeka reaffirmed the Command’s long-term vision of building a self-sustaining, highly skilled workforce equipped for the dynamic challenges of modern trade facilitation and border management.
“We are not just training officers — we are shaping the future of Customs,” he said.
