Several senior officials of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) are reportedly lobbying for extensions to their service tenures despite reaching the mandatory retirement age. Some of these officers, including Deputy Comptroller-Generals (DCGs), Assistant Comptroller-Generals (ACGs), and Comptrollers, have allegedly refused to proceed on retirement, raising concerns about the disruption of the service’s operations.
Lobbying for Tenure Extension
Sources within the NCS have revealed that some of these top-ranking officials are actively seeking approval from Aso Rock Villa to extend their stay in service. Despite officially reaching retirement, they continue to report to work, claiming they are awaiting formal extensions. This situation has been described as unprecedented and problematic, with insiders warning that it could create confusion and negatively affect the organization’s efficiency.
One insider noted, “Officers who are billed to retire have failed to go on retirement leave, while others, after completing their retirement leave, are still coming to the office. They claim they are waiting for an extension from the Villa.”
Operational and Leadership Concerns
The refusal of retired officers to vacate their positions has reportedly caused delays in promotions and disrupted the natural progression of roles within the service. Newly promoted officers are unable to assume their designated responsibilities as retired personnel continue to occupy those roles.
“The implication of Nigeria Customs officials failing to vacate their offices after retirement can be severe. It creates confusion and disrupts the normal functioning of the organization,” said another source.
The absence of an active NCS board, which is responsible for approving retirements and promotions at certain levels, has further complicated the situation. Critics argue that this lack of oversight has enabled retired officers to exploit loopholes and retain their influence within the organization.
Criticism of Tenure Extensions
Some insiders claim that the desire to retain influence and control is a driving force behind the lobbying for tenure extensions. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that some retired officers wield significant power and wealth, which they aim to protect by remaining in office.
Personnel within the NCS have called on President Bola Tinubu to reject any requests for extensions, emphasizing that such actions undermine meritocracy and block career growth for younger officers.
“Extending the tenure of retired customs officers can create a system where meritocracy is undermined, and younger officers are denied opportunities for growth and advancement,” an insider asserted.
The refusal to retire could also perpetuate corruption, as long-serving officers may have established networks that can be exploited for personal gain. Additionally, critics argue that allowing these officers to remain in service prevents the infusion of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas essential for the agency’s growth.
Legal and Administrative Concerns
The situation also raises legal questions. Extending the tenure of retired officers may contravene existing civil service rules governing retirement. This could lead to administrative challenges and potentially erode trust in the system.
Officers Allegedly Refusing Retirement
Sources have named several top officers reportedly involved in the controversy, including:
- ACG B. Imam
- ACG I.G. Umar
- ACG I.Q. Ogbudu
- Compt. M.T. Awe
- Compt. K.R. Kolade
Calls for Reform
Stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to address the issue decisively. They argue that granting extensions undermines the integrity of the NCS and denies younger officers the opportunity to advance in their careers.
“Allowing retired officers to continue in service not only blocks career progression but also weakens the organization’s capacity for innovation and growth. The government must enforce the laws governing retirement to uphold fairness and meritocracy,” a source concluded.
This controversy underscores the need for structural reforms within the NCS to ensure compliance with retirement policies and foster an environment that rewards merit and transparency.
