The Nigeria Customs Service has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, Customs Cares, with the commissioning of a major intervention project at Government Secondary School Wuse.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, inaugurated the project on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in Abuja, describing the initiative as impactful and beneficial to students and the wider school community.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the adoption of the school under the Service’s CSR framework has already yielded positive outcomes, particularly in student performance and the learning environment.
“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” he said.
He noted that the intervention goes beyond infrastructure, emphasising its role in fostering social interaction, talent development and academic growth among students.
“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” Adeniyi added.
The Customs boss commended the school management for identifying priority needs early, especially in infrastructure and security, which guided the execution of the project. He said the Service responded by renovating key facilities and installing solar-powered lighting to enhance safety.
Describing the project as a fulfilled commitment, Adeniyi urged students to make effective use of the upgraded facilities, particularly in developing communication and public speaking skills.
He also stressed the need for sustainability, calling on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to explore partnerships that would ensure proper maintenance of the facilities.
“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.
Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the initiative was designed to address developmental needs in communities where the Service operates.
“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country,” she said, noting that the intervention underscores the Service’s commitment to education.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration and investment in the future of Nigerian children.
“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.
In her remarks, the school’s principal, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marked a milestone in the partnership between the institution and the Customs Service.
She disclosed that the intervention included renovation of the school’s multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered street lighting, and distribution of educational materials.
“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.
Activities at the event featured a basketball match between Customs officers and students, as well as a tree-planting exercise led by the Comptroller-General and senior officials from the education sector.
