By Harriet Tornguvan
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, sacrifice, patriotism, and patience as Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, stressing that the values associated with the festival remain vital to national development and stability.
Adeniyi made the appeal on Wednesday after observing Eid prayers at the Modakeke Eid Ground in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Addressing journalists shortly after the prayers, the Customs boss described Eid-el-Kabir as a solemn period that underscores obedience to Almighty Allah, sacrifice, and total submission to divine will, drawing lessons from the story of Prophet Ibrahim.
According to him, the significance of the celebration extends beyond merriment, as Muslims are expected to reflect on the virtues of faith, patience, and service to humanity.
“We all know what Eid symbolises. It symbolises obedience to Almighty Allah and sacrifice. These are values every Muslim is expected to imbibe in daily life,” Adeniyi said.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving the lives of Nigerians to witness another Eid-el-Kabir celebration in peace and good health.
The Customs chief urged Nigerians to continue promoting peaceful coexistence, national unity, and mutual understanding, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.
“Nigeria is a beautiful country, and we all must unite ourselves,” he stated.
Adeniyi also appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding while exercising their civic responsibilities, noting that patience, discipline, and respect for the rule of law are essential ingredients for national growth and stability.
“We must continue to embrace unity, discipline, sacrifice and patriotism for the development of our country. Nigerians should remain patient, respect the rule of law and continue to support peaceful national progress,” he stressed.
Speaking on the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Comptroller-General expressed satisfaction with the Service’s performance in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations.
He maintained that the NCS remains firmly on course in supporting economic growth, strengthening national security, and promoting exports in line with the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, ongoing reforms within the Service are enhancing Customs operations, while export activities have continued to witness steady growth.
“The NCS is on the right trajectory in revenue generation, trade facilitation, security and economic prosperity. Export activities are increasing steadily in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
