The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has urged its senior officers to uphold best practices in the discharge of their duties.
Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Command’s Area Controller, made this call during a sensitisation programme organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) at Apapa, Lagos, on Thursday.
Olomu stressed the importance of acting in the best interests of citizens and stakeholders, as public servants. He called for transparency and accountability in all aspects of their roles, stating, “Transparency and accountability are not just ideals; they are vital pillars that support good governance and ensure that public servants act in the best interests of the citizens they serve.”
He further noted, “As we all know, transparency and accountability are the foundation of any effective and responsible administration. Therefore, this lecture comes at a critical time as our nation strives to strengthen its institutions and promote a culture of integrity in the public sector.”
Olomu expressed his commitment to working towards a public service that upholds ethical values, responsibility, and professionalism.
Mrs. Florence Bariboloka, the representative of the ICPC Resident Commissioner in Lagos, also spoke at the event. She advised the officers to live within their means and avoid unnecessary societal pressures that could lead to corruption. She cautioned against the temptation to acquire undue wealth and stressed the importance of resisting pressure from family members, especially when faced with expectations of material success.
“When you return to the village, your loved ones may expect you to drive a luxurious car or own a large house simply because you are a customs officer. Do not define yourself by these expectations,” Bariboloka said.
She explained that such pressures could lead officers to make improper financial demands, such as inflating amounts due in their line of duty.
Bariboloka further highlighted the importance of adhering to the Customs code of conduct and ethics, which would help reinforce transparency and accountability. She also encouraged officers to show humility and apologise when they have made mistakes.
She recommended the adoption of the Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard, which has been implemented in over 280 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the country. Bariboloka urged the Apapa Customs leadership to collaborate with the Command’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) to recognise and reward officers who demonstrate exemplary conduct.
