The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commissioned a fully renovated educational facility in Jigawa State, reinforcing its commitment to national development through community-focused initiatives.
The project, executed under the Service’s “Customs Cares” initiative, transformed the historic Alhassan Primary School in Maigatari Local Government Area into a modern learning environment, benefiting more than 2,000 pupils.
The renovation included upgraded classrooms, solar-powered water systems, and improved sanitation facilities, breathing new life into the 51-year-old institution and drawing widespread praise from residents, government officials, and traditional leaders.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described the initiative as a reflection of the Service’s evolving approach to national development.
“This is more than the unveiling of infrastructure; it is a demonstration that national institutions can serve through enforcement and compassion simultaneously,” Adeniyi said, noting that investment in education strengthens Nigeria’s intellectual capacity and long-term security.
He explained that the Customs Cares programme focuses on six key areas: education, healthcare, social investment, environmental sustainability, food security, and support for the creative economy. He added that empowering border communities helps promote peace, cooperation, and national stability.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, represented by Commissioner of Health Isah Chamo and Commissioner of Commerce Aminu Kanta, commended the Customs Service for complementing its core security mandate with grassroots development.
Also speaking, Zone B Coordinator, Assistant Comptroller-General Nsikan Umoh, said the project reflects the Service’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and community partnership.
The Acting Customs Area Controller for Kano/Jigawa Command, Deputy Comptroller Usman Adamu, highlighted Maigatari’s strategic importance as a border town linking Nigeria with the Niger Republic, stressing that community cooperation enhances border security operations.
Traditional leaders also praised the initiative, with the Emir of Gumel, Ahmad Muhammad Sani II, describing the intervention as a vital step toward strengthening education and fostering peace in border communities.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of school bags, exercise books, writing materials, and sports kits to pupils, underscoring the Nigeria Customs Service’s expanding role in supporting social development alongside its enforcement responsibilities.