Nigeria Customs Service Launches Community Development Initiative

 By Justin Holds

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a community development initiative, "Customs Cares," aimed at supporting host communities through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects. The program was officially launched on March 20, 2025, at Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.

Addressing Community Needs

Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the NCS's commitment to addressing critical social, educational, and infrastructural gaps in Nigerian communities. "The Customs Cares initiative represents our comprehensive approach to CSR, designed to foster inclusive growth and create sustainable impact," he stated.

The initiative's first phase focused on education, with the renovation of a Local Authority Primary School and a Primary Healthcare Centre in Sagbokoji community, Lagos State. 

The project included:

• School Renovation: A complete overhaul of the school's infrastructure
• Healthcare Centre: A newly renovated facility to improve healthcare services
• Educational Materials: Distribution of school bags, exercise books, textbooks, and other essential materials

The project has been well-received by the community, with stakeholders praising the NCS's initiative. The Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, Engr. Valentine Buraimoh, described the gesture as unprecedented, while the headmaster of LA Primary School, Oladeyo Emmanuel, noted that the renovation would boost teacher and student morale.

The NCS aims to expand the initiative across the country, adopting schools in each Local Area Council to address specific needs. This approach is expected to create long-term, sustainable impact and foster positive relationships between the NCS and host communities.