Customs Zone ‘B’ Coordinator Pays Homage to Emir of Gumel Ahead of Maigatari CSR Project Commissioning

The Coordinator, Zone ‘B’ of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nsikan Umoh, has paid a homage visit to Ahmad Muhammad Sani II at his palace in Gumel, Jigawa State, as part of preparations for the commissioning of a Corporate Social Responsibility project in Maigatari Local Government Area.

The visit, which took place on Monday 23 February 2026, preceded the formal unveiling of a renovated primary school project executed under the Service’s “Customs Cares” initiative.

Speaking at the palace, the ACG Umoh explained that although the visit appeared informal, it was officially tied to the forthcoming commissioning ceremony at Muhammad Hasan Primary School in Maigatari.

She said having been invited for the event, she considered it proper and respectful to first seek the blessings and support of the Emir before proceeding with the ceremony.

ACG Umoh informed the Emir that the Comptroller-General of Customs had institutionalised Corporate Social Responsibility as a core policy direction of the Service.

According to her, the CSR programme, formally launched in February 2025 under the banner of “Customs Cares,” is designed to positively impact communities where Customs maintains operational presence.

She explained that through collaboration with partner agencies and non-governmental organisations, the Service aims to strengthen its relationship with host communities, improve public trust, and contribute meaningfully to social development.

Describing the Maigatari intervention as the first CSR project of the Service in the North-West Zone, she said the school was deliberately selected because of the strategic importance of the border town in international trade activities.

She disclosed that the school, which is over 30 years old, was in a state of disrepair prior to the intervention, adding, “the renovation included rehabilitation of several classroom blocks, replacement of damaged roofing sheets and ceilings, and repair of nearly 90 per cent of pupils’ desks.”

The Service also provided new tables and chairs for teachers and administrative staff, constructed 16 units of improved ventilated latrines to promote hygiene, and commenced installation of a solar-powered borehole to guarantee sustainable access to clean water.

ACG Umoh, who stressed that the Service views investment in education as a long-term investment in national development, said, “When we invest in children, we invest in the future of this country. Giving them a conducive learning environment gives them hope and prepares them to become responsible citizens.”

She sought the Emir’s support for the smooth execution of the commissioning ceremony, requesting that the school authorities suspend classes from Tuesday to Thursday to enable contractors complete painting and finishing works without disruption.

In his response, the Emir of Gumel, Ahmad Muhammad Sani II, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for remembering its host communities and described the intervention as timely and thoughtful.

He noted that education remains the bedrock of societal progress and said the renovation of the school would significantly improve the learning environment for children in Maigatari.

“This gesture shows that the Service is not only concerned with revenue and border security but also with the wellbeing of our people.” The Emir said.

He assured the Coordinator of the full support of the traditional institution, promising to direct the relevant authorities to cooperate with the Service to ensure a hitch-free commissioning ceremony.

The Emir also urged parents and community leaders to take ownership of the renovated facilities, stressing that government projects achieve lasting value only when communities protect and maintain them.