It was an evening of encomium showers on Saturday June 1, 2024 at the Ladi Kwali Hall of Abuja Continental Hotel where colleagues, friends and family members of Assistant Comptroller General of Customs Malanta Ibrahim Yusuf gathered to celebrate his retirement from the Nigeria Customs Service.
ACG Yusuf had distinguished himself in many ways including leading Apapa Command to Achieve the collection of N1.2trillion for the first time in the history of the NCS when he served as Area Controller of the flagship command. No Controller had attained N1tr collection before his time
Signaling the end of a 34 years journey in service to fatherland, the gathering brought childhood friends , members of the nation’s business community and friends from other services to celebrate a man who served outstandingly in discharging the core customs functions of revenue collection, anti smuggling and trade facilitaton
Addressing the gathering in a large auditorium filled to its capacity, Alhaji Yusuf reminisced on his career as a young officer of the NCS who confronted life threatening challenges like being attacked by wild animals during a patrol assignment and facing threats as ASYCUDA Project Manager at Apapa Port but never compromised government interest while serving
He described the revenue collection feat as product of teamwork and dedication where he also ensured sustenance of industrial harmony to achieve optimum productivity
Our collective efforts led us to achieve a historic revenue milestone of N1.2 trillion, the highest revenue generated by a command in the history of the Nigerian Customs Service as at that time.
While appreciating the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for the support he received so far, the celebrant described Adeniyi as a friend and brother who they joined the service together. He commended Adeniyi’s leadership style as one that promotes professionalism
Uba Maigari Ahmadu, Minister of State for Steel Development who was present at the event described ACG Yusuf as a goal oriented person who gives his best to any task since their school days.
Abdullahi Babani, a retired Deputy Comptroller General of Customs said Yusuf is a loyal and versatile officer who is always willing to learn
Charles Edike, a retired ACG described him as a dynamic officer who contributed immensely to the many successes of his bosses at different stages of his career
In his speech,he said “Your presence at this retirement event fills me with immense appreciation; your attendance transforms this milestone into a truly unforgettable moment. Words alone cannot capture the depth of my emotions or adequately convey my gratitude to you. So, I simply extend my appreciation to you all for gracing this occasion with your presence, your kind words, and warm wishes. Thank you very much.
“I would like to seize this moment to express my profound appreciation to the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for his support and blessing. We started this journey together 34 years ago, and since then, he has been a friend and a brother. I am particularly grateful for your leadership, vision and unwavering commitment to excellence. You have proved that the customs service belongs to a professional customs officer. I have always admired your ability to lead with strength and passion. Your dedication to fostering a positive and productive environment has made a significant difference between where we were and where we are today. Please continue with the remarkable work you have initiated.
“To my esteemed senior colleagues whom I was opportune to work with directly and indirectly, I am proud of what we have achieved together. You have taught me the true meaning of teamwork and resilience. Thank you for your guidance and trust, your vision, and encouragement has been the foundation of my professional journey.
It was a privilege to work with some of the brightest minds in the history of the Nigerian Customs Service. Your mentorship has shaped me into knowing who I am today. Thank you.
“To my colleagues, I sincerely thank you for your collaboration and making everyday a learning experience, you have inspired me with your creativity and dedication. Together, we have built a formidable team that has earned us many commendations by continuing to strike a balance between trade facilitation and revenue generation. Our collective efforts led us to achieve a historic revenue milestone of N1.2 trillion, the highest revenue generated by a command in the history of the Nigerian Customs Service as at that time.
“To my junior colleagues, who represent the future of the service, I extend my heartfelt pride and encouragement. I was opportune to work and groom the finest officers in the NCS. As I have always told you, remember that everyday is a new opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace every challenge with a positive mindset and never be afraid to ask questions when necessary. Try to build good relationships, network, and never stop striving for excellence. Your energy and fresh perspective are your driving force in this noble organization.
” I have every confidence in your ability, skills and knowledge. Therefore, I encourage you to adopt empathy and integrity as your guiding principle. I look forward to staying in touch and seeing all the great things you will continue to achieve in your career. I wish you good blessings and guidance always.
“To our amicable stakeholders and other government agencies. I would like to extend my deepest appreciation for the incredible support extended to me over the years. Your partnership and collaboration have been instrumental in our collective success and progress.
“Working alongside dedicated and professional individuals like yourselves has been an honour to me. Your commitment to excellence and your support have not only enabled us to achieve our goals but has also set a high standard for our performance. As I bid farewell, I am confident that the relationship we have built will continue to strive and grow forever.
“To the organizing committee and those who have immensely contributed financially to the realization of this event, I would like to thank each and everyone of you for the incredible effort and dedication you put in organizing this wonderful event. Your hard-work, meticulous planning and attention to details have made this day special and memorable for me. I am deeply grateful for every thing you have done. This event is a testament to your talent, passion and hard-work. I am honored to have such dedicated committed officers as organizing team. Thank you for making my retirement celebration extraordinary. Your effort has made this day a day I will always cherish. Thank you for being part of this historic moment.
“Lastly and most importantly, I want to take a moment to appreciate my precious and living mother Hajia Hadiza Yusuf, for the love, prayers and guidance you have given me throughout this journey and beyond. You are an inspiration to my life.
“To my late father Mallam Yusuf Sarkin Gabas, who have designed and laid the foundation of my life, your guidance and wisdom continue to inspire me everyday. I wish you were alive to witness what the seed you have planted have grown to be. May Allah have mercy on you.
I will also like to acknowledge my adorable wife and children for their unwavering support, understanding and love. You have been my anchor throughout this journey. I am excited to spend more time with you and create new memories together. Your support has made every day possible, and for that, I am deeply thankful to almighty God for having you by my side.
