The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), led by its National President, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, has unveiled the Green Border Initiative at the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured the official flag-off of the Customs Care Initiative, a medical outreach programme launched by the ACG Zone ‘A’, Mohammed Babandede, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi
NAN also reports that initiatives underscore the service’s commitment to community welfare, environmental sustainability and regional cooperation, bringing together officers, families, sister agencies, and local communities in a collective drive for impact.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyi described the Green Border Initiative as both an environmental and economic empowerment project aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and empowering women and youth across border communities.
“This initiative is not just about planting trees; it’s about planting opportunities.
“We are turning waste into wealth, giving our women and youth the skills to thrive in a greener economy,” she said.
She added that COWA would soon be taking the programme global, with partnerships to expand the empowerment model internationally.
Also speaking ,the Customs Area Controller, Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, appreciated the support of the COWA National President and the Customs Headquarters for identifying Seme as one of the launch point.
Adenuga said the Customs Care Initiative would provide free medical consultations, laboratory tests, medications, and eyeglasses for over 1,000 beneficiaries, including screenings for breast cancer, hepatitis B and C and blood pressure checks.
“Beyond trade facilitation, we are touching lives and supporting the communities that host us.
“Every life improved today strengthens the bond between customs and our people,” he said.
Unveiling the medical outreach, Babandede, commended the Seme command and COWA for aligning their humanitarian efforts with the vision of the CGC.
“What we are witnessing today is a reflection of a new era in customs; one that values not only border security but also human and environmental security.
“This initiative should extend to all commands nationwide,” he stated.
Also speaking, Comptroller Saadatu Baba from the Customs Medical Headquarters, Abuja, outlined the health services available and emphasised the CGC’s dedication to wellness through proactive medical education and first aid training across commands.
NAN reports reports that the event also featured coconut tree planting by the COWA President, empowerment of widows and women in the border community with financial support and tools.
It featured inauguration of solar-powered streetlights and the remodeled Officers’ Mess by the Assistant Comptroller General Zone A Lagos.
The event was attended by the Benin Republic Customs officials, traditional rulers, local government chairmen and military, paramilitary and other sister agencies, captains of industry further strengthening cross-border collaboration.
