In a strategic move to enhance the emergency response capabilities of its workforce, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has partnered with the Nigerian Red Cross Society to conduct a one-day intensive first aid training for its personnel.
The training, held on Friday, 9th May 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, was aimed at equipping officers particularly those stationed in remote and high-risk areas with the essential skills to manage medical emergencies on and off duty.
Declaring the training open, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who was represented by the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, ACG Timi Bomodi, described the initiative as a proactive step toward safeguarding the lives of officers and those around them.
“This training goes beyond our medical unit. In many emergency situations, a Customs officer may be the closest responder. Being able to provide immediate care can make all the difference between life and death,” Bomodi stated.
He emphasized that the Service is committed to ensuring that every officer possesses basic life-saving knowledge, adding that such skills are applicable not only in operational environments but also in everyday life.
Bomodi also highlighted that the training is part of the CGC’s broader health and safety agenda, which included strategic collaborations with health-focused organizations. He disclosed that a major Customs health facility in Bauchi will soon be commissioned to expand healthcare access for officers and their families.
In his remarks, the Head of the Customs Medical Corps, Comptroller Ike Nnaji, said the training was specifically designed for non-medical personnel who often serve as first responders in emergencies.
“First aid knowledge is not limited to professionals. Everyone should know what to do in an emergency. Today’s training reflects that commitment. I encourage officers to continually refresh and share this knowledge,” Nnaji said.
He added that the training is part of a wider medical outreach approved by the CGC, which will be extended to Customs commands across the country.
Also speaking, the Nigerian Red Cross team lead and chief facilitator, Audu Goje, praised the NCS for prioritizing staff welfare and emergency preparedness.
“Customs officers often work in high-risk areas where immediate medical help may not be available. By providing this training, the Service is demonstrating strong institutional responsibility and care for human life,” Goje said.
He commended the officers for their active participation and expressed confidence that the skills learned would have a far-reaching impact within and outside the Service.
