The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College (NCCSC), Gwagwalada has inaugurated Junior Course 26, charging participants to strengthen their professional competence, leadership capacity, and ability to respond effectively to the evolving demands of customs administration.
The ceremony, held at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Gwagwalada, Abuja, marked the commencement of the course, designed to broaden participants’ understanding of contemporary customs administration and prepare them for greater responsibilities within the Service.
Addressing the newly inaugurated students, the Commander of TRADOC, Deputy Comptroller General of Customs Suleiman Chiroma, urged participants to approach the course with a practical mindset, apply what they learn to operational challenges, and develop the critical thinking needed for effective decision-making.
Chiroma emphasised the importance of continuous learning, technology, integrity, and collaboration in modern customs administration. “Technology cannot replace sound judgment and human thinking. Technology cannot replace integrity, your character and mindset,” he said.
The Commander also encouraged participants to view their professional development as a continuous journey, urging them to remain intellectually curious, embrace change, and seek opportunities to improve their knowledge and leadership abilities.
In his welcome address, the Commandant of NCCSC, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs Dow Gaura, urged participants to uphold academic and professional standards throughout the programme, warning against plagiarism, examination malpractice, dishonesty, and other forms of misconduct.
Gaura emphasised the importance of discipline and integrity in the development of effective customs officers, stating, “Academic excellence, integrity and professionalism remain non-negotiable standards within the College,” he said.
The Commandant formally declared the course open, urging participants to maximise the opportunity and return to their respective commands with enhanced knowledge, stronger leadership capacity, and a commitment to improving the performance of the Nigeria Customs Service.
