By Nworisa Michael
A celebrated officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu, has officially taken over as the new Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, a key enforcement formation responsible for tackling smuggling across the South-West region.
Comptroller Aliyu gained national recognition after he boldly rejected a $50,000 bribe during a major enforcement operation at the Tin Can Island Port, an act that earned him commendations for integrity and strengthened public confidence in the Customs Service. His appointment to FOU Zone A is widely viewed as a reward for ethical leadership and professionalism.
The formal handover ceremony held on December 10, 2025, saw outgoing Commander, Assistant Comptroller-General Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, transfer leadership responsibilities to Comptroller Aliyu. Shuaibu’s tenure was marked by high-value seizures running into billions of naira, including automotive imports, narcotics, rice, fuel products, arms, and assorted contraband. His performance has set a strong foundation for the incoming controller.
In his acceptance remarks, Comptroller Aliyu expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and the NCS management for entrusting him with what he described as a highly strategic assignment. He commended his predecessor for an outstanding record of enforcement and pledged to sustain and expand the unit’s achievements through intelligence-driven operations, stronger inter-agency collaboration, improved officer welfare, and a strict culture of discipline and accountability.
He emphasized that ethics and professionalism will remain at the core of his leadership, noting that the fight against smuggling requires firmness, integrity, and a deep commitment to national economic security.
FOU Zone A remains the busiest enforcement corridor of the Nigeria Customs Service, covering Lagos and neighbouring states where smuggling networks are most active. Comptroller Aliyu’s assumption of command signals a renewed push for tougher anti-smuggling operations as the agency prioritizes integrity in service delivery.
His appointment has been described by stakeholders as a clear message that the Nigeria Customs Service is rewarding honesty and strengthening public trust at a time the nation is intensifying its fight against economic sabotage.
