By Tunde Ojudun
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, commissioned a landmark intervention project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja, to mark the one-year anniversary of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Customs Cares.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyi highlighted the positive outcomes of the school’s adoption under the CSR framework, noting improvements in student performance and the overall 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 emphasized that the intervention went beyond infrastructure, creating opportunities for social interaction, talent development, and academic growth.
“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 CGC commended the school management for identifying priority needs early in the engagement, which guided the Service’s intervention. Renovations included key facilities, solar-powered lighting to improve safety, and enhanced security measures.
“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” he said.
Adeniyi urged students to maximize the upgraded facilities, particularly in developing communication and public speaking skills, while stressing the importance of sustainability. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to explore structured partnerships to ensure proper maintenance.
Earlier, Comptroller Patience Ibrahim, head of the Customs Cares Unit, described the event as both a celebration of the initiative’s first anniversary and the commissioning of one of its flagship projects. She noted that Customs Cares was designed to respond to developmental needs in communities where the Service operates.
Executive Secretary of the FCT Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, praised the project as a meaningful investment in the future of Nigerian children, while the school’s Principal, Josephine Ugwu, highlighted the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, solar-powered street lighting, and provision of educational materials.
“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” Ugwu said.
Highlights of the occasion included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service and students of Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3, as well as tree planting by the CGC, his management team, and officials of the FCT Secondary Education Board.