A LEADER OF INTEGRITY: DR. ABUBAKAR DALHATU ZURMI'S EXEMPLARY SERVICE

By Lod Onyeji

As Dr. Abubakar Dalhatu Zurmi prepares to retire from his position as Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service in charge of Kano and Jigawa Area Command, his dedication, discipline, and commitment to public service are an inspiration to many. A man of humble beginnings, Dr. Zurmi joined the Customs Service as a watchman and worked his way up the ranks, earning a Ph.D. along the way.

Dr. Zurmi's leadership style is characterized by his willingness to engage with stakeholders, listen to their concerns, and take decisive action to address them. He is known for his punctuality, often arriving at the office by 8 am and working late into the evening. His commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in his decision to attend to people openly in the premises, rather than behind closed doors.

One notable example of Dr. Zurmi's impact is his intervention in the outrageous extortion regime of NCS officers in Kano. He took decisive action to put an end to the practice, directing that only legal goods be allowed to pass through the borders, and that transporters not be extorted. This move has had a significant impact on the business community, with many traders and transporters able to conduct their business without fear of harassment.

Dr. Zurmi's work ethics are exemplary. He responds to mails within 24 hours and is deeply engaged in his work, often to the point of exhaustion. His team members have noted that he is so dedicated that he no longer has time for long phone calls, and is often too exhausted to speak with his loved ones at night.

The results of Dr. Zurmi's efforts are evident in the increased revenue collection, which has improved significantly under his leadership. He has blocked leakages and ensured that the rightful revenue is collected, making him a valuable asset to the government and the people.

As Dr. Zurmi prepares to retire, his legacy as a leader of integrity and dedication will be hard to forget. He is a role model for young Nigerians, demonstrating that with hard work, discipline, and commitment, one can rise to the top of their profession. Dr. Zurmi's service is a testament to the power of public service, and his impact will be felt for years to come.