The Customs Area Controller, Port Harcourt Area I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, has placed discipline and reputational management at the heart of the Command’s operational focus for 2026, declaring that the credibility of the Nigeria Customs Service rests on the daily conduct of its officers.
This position was made known at the Command’s first parade of the year held on Monday, 10 February 2026, at the Command Headquarters in Port Harcourt. Details of the event were contained in a statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Barilule Aanee.
Addressing officers and men drawn from various units and formations under the Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku described discipline and punctuality as non-negotiable standards for effective service delivery.
“Efficiency begins with personal responsibility. Every officer must strictly adhere to procedures, respect the chain of command and demonstrate integrity and consistency in the discharge of duties.” Comptroller Atuluku said.
She stressed that sustaining performance and credibility requires a culture of accountability, adding that operational success is built on order, professionalism and ethical conduct.
The Area Controller also spoke extensively on reputational management, reminding officers that the image of the Nigeria Customs Service is shaped daily through their interactions with stakeholders, sister agencies and the general public.
“The reputation of the Service is not abstract; it is defined by how we conduct ourselves every day. Our engagements must reflect courtesy, transparency, integrity and accountability.” She stated.
Comptroller Atuluku aligned her message with the leadership vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noting that the Service’s current administration continues to prioritise discipline, transparency and institutional integrity across Commands nationwide.
Also speaking at the parade, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Nadama underscored the collective responsibility of officers to protect and enhance the reputation of the Command.
“Every officer represents the Service at all times. Our actions, both on and off duty, must uphold the values and standards of the Nigeria Customs Service.” DC Nadama said.
He further encouraged unity, teamwork and mutual respect among personnel, stressing that sustained dedication and ethical conduct remain essential to achieving the Command’s objectives for the year.
“We must continue to work together with accountability and shared purpose. Integrity is not optional; it is the foundation of our profession.” He added.
The parade was reported to have concluded with the presentation of awards to officers who distinguished themselves through diligence and exemplary commitment to duty.
Meanwhile, the award recipients included DC Abubakar Nadama, DC Tivfa Antom, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II Princewill Nmezi, and Customs Assistant III Promise Mbah.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, DC Nadama expressed appreciation to the Customs Area Controller and the leadership of the Command for the recognition.
“This honour strengthens our resolve to remain committed to excellence, discipline and the core values of the Service.” He said.
It’s learnt that the ceremony formally set the tone for operational activities in 2026, with renewed emphasis on discipline, ethical conduct and institutional reputation within the Port Harcourt Area I Command.
