The newly appointed Controller of the Federal Operations Unit, FOU Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, has unveiled a reform-driven leadership agenda anchored on change management, compliance management, and reputational management.
Speaking in an interview with journalists, Comptroller Aliyu said his focus is to strengthen accountability through transparency, professionalism, and a motivated workforce, in line with the leadership philosophy of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
He explained that his change management approach will emphasise attitudinal reorientation among Customs officers, the trading public, and border communities, stressing that sustainable reform must begin with a shift in mindset and strict adherence to professionalism and discipline.
Aliyu noted that Customs operations now take place in a complex global trade environment, requiring adaptability, intelligence-led enforcement, and constructive engagement with stakeholders.
On compliance management, the Controller said adherence to procedures and ethical standards would be non-negotiable, adding that enforcement would be firm, fair, and intelligence-driven. He warned smugglers operating across land borders and waterways to desist, declaring that there would be no safe routes or hiding places.
He also cautioned importers and clearing agents against under-declaration, under-payment, and other sharp practices, saying Customs will detect and recover all revenue due to the government through strengthened risk assessment and post-clearance audit systems.
On reputational management, Comptroller Aliyu said accountability and transparency remain central to public trust, pledging that FOU Zone A would sustain ethical standards and public confidence in the Service.
He highlighted the security role of Customs, warning that smuggling is closely linked to arms proliferation, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities that threaten national security.
Comptroller Aliyu takes office following a strong performance by the outgoing leadership, which recorded over seven hundred seizures valued at more than ten billion naira, alongside dozens of arrests and significant revenue recovery.
He has pledged to intensify intelligence-led operations, strengthen stakeholder collaboration, and promote professionalism within the ranks of FOU Zone A.
