What an absolute proud moment for the Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Unit! On Friday, June 26, 2026, the Nigeria Customs Service Command and Staff College (NCCSC), Gwagwalada, graduated 50 exceptional officers from Senior Course 14.
But the real headline for us? The NCS PR Unit completely swept the top honours!
Chief Superintendent of Customs Ridwan Yusuf emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student with three additional awards, closely followed by Chief Superintendent of Customs Nuruddeen Sa’idu as the Second Best Graduating Student.
Seeing my immediate colleagues stand on that stage at the Ahmed Makarfi Hall was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. It is a massive testament to the calibre, intellectual depth, and dedication of the officers in the NCS PR Unit.
They didn’t just pass; they conquered one of the Service’s most demanding professional training programs, proving once again that PR isn’t just about managing images; it’s about top-tier administrative competence and strategic leadership.
But I have to admit, my immense pride comes with a bittersweet twist.
If history and tradition are anything to go by, just like Assistant Comptroller Benjamin Lomba’s stellar performance in Senior Course 13 earned him a spot as a Directing Staff, Ridwan and Nuruddeen are almost certainly going to be retained at the College to shape the next generation of leaders.
While I am incredibly ecstatic about their career progression and the honour they’ve brought to the PR family, selfishly, I am already feeling the weight of their exit from the unit.
Replacing officers of their calibre is no small task, and their daily presence, sharp minds, and camaraderie will be deeply missed in our trenches.
To Ridwan and Nuruddeen: You have made the entire Nigeria Customs Service and the PR Unit specifically immensely proud.
As you transition into this next chapter of mentorship and excellence, know that you carry our highest respect and full support. Go make us proud at the College, gentlemen!
Signed:
DC AA Maiwada PhD, mnipr, mniia
National Public Relations Officer
Nigeria Customs Service
27 June 2026
