Customs Officers’ Wives Association President Urges Solidarity and Capacity Building
In a bid to protect Nigeria’s economy, customs officers, particularly those at the border areas, are facing enormous challenges daily. According to Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, the National President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), the pressure and anxieties that come with the anti-smuggling battle are taking a toll not just on the officers but also on their families.
Mrs. Adeniyi made this statement during her visit to the headquarters of Ogun 1 Area Command in Idiroko, Ogun State, where she awarded scholarships to 54 outstanding pupils from Nigeria Customs schools and distributed palliatives to over 50 widows of fallen customs officers. The visit aimed to celebrate the achievements of the chapter and show solidarity with officers and their families who bear the weight of this noble duty.
In her speech, Mrs. Adeniyi emphasized the importance of capacity building and skills acquisition for officers’ wives. She urged them to continuously seek ways to improve themselves, particularly through capacity building, as it equips them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support their families better and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Mrs. Adeniyi also emphasized the significance of empowering women through education, training, and skills development in a developing country like Nigeria. She encouraged the executives and members of the Ogun 1 Area Command chapter to maintain unity and harmony within the fold, stating that "we are stronger when we work together in love and understanding."
The COWA president’s visit aimed to provide support and encouragement to customs officers and their families, who are often at the forefront of the battle against smuggling and cross-border crimes. Her message of solidarity and capacity building serves as a reminder of the importance of working together to protect Nigeria’s economy and communities.
