A new chapter has opened at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone D of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) as Comptroller Abdullahi Shuaibu Kaila formally takes over command from the outgoing Comptroller Abubakar Lawal Umar, who has proceeded on retirement.
The handover ceremony, held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Customs headquarters in Bauchi, marked a seamless transition of authority in line with the Service’s long-standing administrative tradition.
In his farewell address, Comptroller Umar expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the NCS management for entrusting him with the responsibility to lead the Zone.
He described his years in service as fulfilling and impactful, crediting the successes achieved to the commitment and professionalism of officers across the Unit.
FOU Zone D covers nine states, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Plateau, and Nasarawa, and plays a crucial role in anti-smuggling operations and revenue protection in the North-East and North-Central corridors.
According to him, the cooperation and dedication of personnel under his command were instrumental in strengthening the fight against economic sabotage, intercepting illicit goods, and enhancing national security within the zone. He urged the officers to extend the same loyalty and diligence to his successor, Comptroller Kaila.
Comptroller Kaila, known within Customs circles for his operational expertise and strong enforcement background, is expected to consolidate on the gains recorded under Umar’s leadership. His appointment signals continued efforts by the NCS to strengthen field operations, curb smuggling, and enhance trade facilitation across border communities.
The handover ceremony also symbolised the Service’s emphasis on continuity and professionalism as Comptroller Kaila pledged to sustain the momentum, deepen inter-agency collaboration, and build on the operational frameworks already in place.
With the transition completed, stakeholders across the zone anticipate renewed vigour in enforcement operations as Comptroller Kaila begins his tenure.
