Comptroller Aina Olufemi: 35 Years of Protecting Borders and Inspiring a Nation

Mary Nnah

As Comptroller Aina Olufemi recently bid farewell to the Nigeria Customs Service after 35 years of dedicated service, his colleagues and admirers gathered to celebrate a remarkable career marked by distinction, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to public service. With a tenure spanning multiple generations, Comptroller Olufemi’s legacy is a reflection of his unshakeable dedication to duty, his passion for excellence, and his profound impact on the nation’s customs and border security landscape.

From his early days as a young junior officer to his eventual rise as Comptroller of Customs, Comptroller Olufemi’s journey was characterized by hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to ethics and integrity. Born in Ilogbo Ekiti, Ekiti State, he joined the Nigeria Customs Service on January 25, 1990, and quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated and results-driven officer.

Throughout his illustrious career, Comptroller Olufemi held various key positions, including the Borno Area Command, Zone D Area Command in Bauchi State, Zone B Area Command in Minna, Niger State, and the Comptroller General’s Anti-Smuggling Special Squad. His extensive experience also encompassed roles in Federal Operations in Lagos, Seme Area Command, Tincan Area Command, FOU Zone C, Nigeria Customs Intelligence Units, and Valuation Units, among others.

Comptroller Olufemi’s achievements were not limited to his operational roles. He was a passionate advocate for sharing intelligence, coordinating efforts, and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance security and facilitate legitimate trade. His commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors.

As he reflected on his career, Comptroller Olufemi highlighted several standout moments that defined his journey. “Among the many cherished memories from my service years, the most prominent are the two occasions when I received the Comptroller General’s Awards for outstanding performance in anti-smuggling and revenue generation, in 2018 and 2022, respectively.” These accolades not only reflected his dedication to his work but also showcased the collective efforts of his team and the impact they made during his tenure.

One of Comptroller Olufemi’s most significant achievements was leading the Apapa Valuation Unit to record-breaking revenue generation. In 2024, the unit contributed over ₦2.5 trillion to government coffers, the highest in Nigeria Customs history. This feat was a demonstration of his leadership and strategic vision. “These moments not only reflect the critical work we do but also reinforce my dedication to service and the importance of integrity in our operations,” he noted.

Comptroller Olufemi’s leadership style was characterised by his ability to inspire and motivate his teams. He led by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to excellence. “The reward for hard work is often more work,” he advised those who would follow in his footsteps. “You should embody loyalty, dedication, and perseverance, as these attributes are essential for any officer.”

As he transitioned into retirement, Comptroller Olufemi expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and the Nigeria Customs family. “Life is like a stage where each of us plays our part and eventually moves on,” he said. “I am truly grateful for the opportunities I had to grow and develop here. I will always cherish the experiences I shared with all of you.”

Comptroller Olufemi’s commitment to community development and social responsibility was evident in his active support for initiatives that promote growth and improvement in his community. “In the immediate future, I plan to take a break, relax, and enjoy this new phase of life with my family,” he said. “After that, I intend to fully engage in community development, an area I have always been passionate about. I look forward to using my skills and experience to make a positive impact, contributing to initiatives that support growth and improvement in my community.”

As Comptroller Aina Olufemi embarks on this new chapter of his life, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of customs officers and public servants. His dedication, integrity, and passion for excellence have left an indelible mark on the Nigeria Customs Service, and his contributions will be felt for years to come.

“As I begin this new chapter, I want to share a message with my colleagues and the Nigeria Customs family,” he said. “I encourage you all to remain dedicated, loyal, and focused in your roles. Thank you all, and goodbye.” With these parting words, Comptroller Olufemi bid farewell to the Nigeria Customs Service, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape the nation’s customs and border security landscape for generations to come.