The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has started preparations for its 2026 basic training programme for new recruits. To achieve this, the NCS has trained trainers from various disciplines, including drill, medicals, security, and sports. The training, which took place in Lagos, aims to bring trainers together under one platform to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, addressed the trainers at the event, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration. He stated that working in silos could undermine the desired results and urged the trainers to review the training modules to produce officers that the Service and society would be proud of. Adeniyi was represented at the event by Assistant Comptroller-General Frank Onyeka.
Adeniyi shared his experience as a trainer in 2008 and 2009, noting that the officers trained during that period had risen through the ranks, with some serving as Assistant Controllers. He attributed their success to the collaborative efforts of the trainers at the time. The NCS boss also urged heads of various training units to take full responsibility for their areas while remaining open to contributions from others.
The retreat, described as the first of its kind, aims to promote a common understanding among trainers and ensure everyone works towards the same objective. Adeniyi explained that the new approach would save time and promote greater coordination among trainers ahead of the basic training programme. He expects the new recruits to demonstrate discipline, perseverance, and calmness throughout their training.
The Commandant of the Ikeja Training College, Deputy Comptroller Precious Atah, welcomed participants to the retreat, describing it as an important step in setting the pace for the training programme. She urged the trainers to approach the exercise with an open mind. The Coordinator of the retreat, Deputy Comptroller-General Greg Itotoh (Rtd), also addressed participants, charging them to freely discuss anything without holding back.
The Nigeria Customs Service is taking a new approach to training its recruits, bringing all trainers under one roof to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing. This move is part of the innovations introduced by the Service to improve its training programme. The NCS aims to produce officers who will make a positive impact in the Service and society.
The 2026 basic training programme is expected to produce well-trained officers who will contribute to the success of the Nigeria Customs Service. The Service is committed to providing a comprehensive training programme that will equip recruits with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. The training programme is scheduled to commence soon, with the trainers playing a crucial role in its success.
Key points
- Nigeria Customs Service trains trainers for 2026 recruitment exercise
- Trainers urged to work as a team and review training modules
- New recruits expected to demonstrate discipline, perseverance, and calmness
