FOU Zone B Kaduna Goes Quiet Since New Comptroller Assumed Office

FOU Zone B Kaduna Goes Quiet Since New Comptroller Assumed Office

By Aluta News

August. 4, 2025

Since the assumption of office by Comptroller Aliyu Alkali as the new helmsman of the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, Kaduna, there has been an unusual lull in activities within the zone, sparking concerns among observers and stakeholders.

Alkali officially took over leadership of the unit from his predecessor, Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, on April 25, 2025, during a formal handover ceremony held at Kangiwa House, Kaduna. The event was attended by serving officers, retired customs officials, and other dignitaries.

A statement issued by the Unit’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Saidu Nuruddeen, had described the ceremony as a moment of joy and transition for both officers. In his farewell address, Comptroller Shuaibu thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the opportunity to serve and urged officers to extend the same support to the new leadership.

Despite the ceremonial fanfare, over three months have passed without the usual media engagements or announcements of anti-smuggling operations and seizures that had been a hallmark of the unit under Shuaibu.

Previously, the Zone B Command was known for its frequent briefings and high-profile seizures of contraband goods, which were regularly showcased to the press.

However, since Comptroller Alkali assumed duty, the media has not been invited for any briefings or press conferences, leading to speculation about a slowdown or shift in operational strategy.

Some sources within the zone, who pleaded anonymity, expressed concern that the apparent silence may be affecting public perception of the command’s activities.

“It’s not clear whether operations are ongoing or not, but the media blackout is unusual. Under Shuaibu, we were regularly updated on seizures and enforcement actions,” one officer said.

Observers are calling on the new Comptroller to maintain the tradition of transparency and media engagement established by his predecessor, especially given the strategic importance of Zone B, which spans several northern states.