The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has organised a one-day first aid training at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, on Friday.
The initiative, delivered in partnership with the Nigerian Red Cross, was aimed at enhancing the life-saving capabilities and operational readiness of its workforce and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to medical emergencies, both on and off duty.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, described the initiative as a strategic move to empower all officers, not just medical personnel, with essential life-saving skills.
Represented by Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, ACG Timi Bomodi, he said: “This training goes beyond our medical team. In many emergencies, a Customs officer might be the closest responder. The ability to act swiftly can mean the difference between life and death. That’s why this initiative is so important.”
He noted that many Customs officers are deployed to remote and high-risk areas, making it vital for them to be physically prepared and medically aware, especially in situations involving choking, breathing difficulties, or other critical conditions.
“This training applies everywhere, not just at work but at home and in the community. Once this knowledge is acquired, we expect officers to pass it on, creating a ripple effect of safety beyond the Service,” he added.
Adeniyi reaffirmed that the programme aligns with one of the CGC’s core policy priorities: collaboration with strategic partners.
He announced that one of the Service’s key health facilities in Bauchi would soon be commissioned as part of broader health initiatives.
The Head of the Customs Medical Corps, Comptroller Ike Nnaji, stressed the importance of basic first aid knowledge for non-medical staff.
He said: “First aid isn’t exclusive to professionals. Everyone should know how to respond in an emergency.
“Today’s training focused on our non-medical officers, whose participation has been commendable. I urge them to keep refreshing their knowledge.”
Nnaji confirmed the training is part of a larger medical outreach approved by the CGC, with plans to ensure all NCS personnel receive first aid training.
Speaking at the event, the Nigerian Red Cross team lead and lead facilitator, Audu Goje, praised the NCS for its proactive approach to officer welfare.
He said: “First aid is often the crucial first response. Customs officers, often stationed in high-risk areas, must be prepared to act before medical help arrives.
“This training demonstrates a genuine commitment to human life and institutional responsibility.”
Goje commended the officers for their enthusiasm and expressed confidence that the skills gained would be applied and widely shared.
