The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced its 2025 Annual Medical Corps Retreat in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
The retreat, which began on Monday is expected to span five days and is aimed at strengthening the capacity of the medical unit within the Service.
This year’s retreat is themed “The Medical Corps in the Nigeria Customs Service: Past, Present, and Future.” The event brings together, medical personnel from across the country to reflect on past achievements, assess current challenges, and develop strategies for future improvements.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Head of the Medical Unit, Comptroller Ethelbert Nnaji, emphasised the importance of the retreat in aligning the medical corps with modern expectations and national health standards.
“This retreat is an opportunity to reflect on what the medical unit has accomplished in the past, assess where we stand today, and determine how we can move forward positively,” Comptroller Nnaji said.
“We must continue to build capacity and remain dedicated to the health and welfare of our officers and the communities we serve.”
Comptroller Nnaji also gave an overview of the 2023 retreat held in Minna, Niger State, highlighting key outcomes and improvements made since then.
In his welcome address, the Customs Area Comptroller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Onyebuyi Adelaya, commended the leadership of the NCS, particularly the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for his commitment to modernising the Service and supporting the medical unit.
“The Service remains committed to equipping and supporting the medical corps to deliver efficient healthcare services,” Comptroller Adelaya stated. “We appreciate the Comptroller General’s relentless efforts in transforming the medical unit, and we are confident that this retreat will further strengthen our resolve.” he added.
Several keynote presentations were delivered during the opening session. Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr. Awe Seun presented a paper titled “The Silent Thief of Sight,” focusing on blindness prevention and eye health. Assistant Comptroller Nafi’u Salihu Abubakar presented a paper on “The Role of the Medical Unit in the Nigeria Customs Service Laboratory,” while Comptroller, Special Duties, Hannel Haddison, delivered a paper on “Regimentation, Discipline, and Commitment in the Nigeria Customs Service.”
The event will feature a series of health awareness campaigns, medical screenings, and workshops aimed at enhancing the performance and wellbeing of Customs personnel nationwide.
