The Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Col. Hameed Ali, rtd, has cautioned officers and men of the NCS to shun corrupt practices, stating that his administration has zero tolerance for corruption and would not hesitate to dismiss and jail anyone found wanting.
He issued the warning in Calabar while addressing officers and men of the Customs Service on the need to be of good conduct and show professionalism while carrying out their duties.
Ali said, “I want to make it clear to all of you that I have zero tolerance for indiscipline and corruption. I will dismiss and jail any officer found guilty.
“Indiscipline will no longer have a place in the Nigeria Customs Service. We must have officers and men with impeccable characters to promote the image of the service.
“Anyone caught falsifying any document or compromising with fake imported goods will also be dismissed and jailed.
“We have resolved that anyone caught in an unprofessional conduct, no matter the circumstances, will be dismissed and jailed for the offence.”
According to him, the dismissal and incarceration will send a strong message to others and this would do well to reform the service.
“I am determined to undertake reforms and reconstruct the service to collect more revenue into the coffers of the Federal Government.
“We have been seen as the most indisciplined paramilitary organization because we have refused to obey the laws that govern us.
“Paramilitary is all about discipline and we must operate on that basis. We must also work in line with the law establishing the service.’’
Ali further stressed that hardworking officers would be rewarded.
Speaking on the issue of welfare, the NCS boss said efforts were on to provide suitable accommodation for officers and men of the service.
“We are aware of the challenges of accommodation in your command. We will try our best to provide a better accommodation for you all,” Ali stated.
