Beyond Borders: The Unstoppable Journey of Comptroller Awe Michael Toyin

Mary Nnah

In the heart of Okebode, a small town in Osun State, Nigeria, a legend was born. Comptroller Awe Michael Toyin, affectionately known as Mikky, is a name that resonates with excellence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service. His remarkable journey, spanning over three decades,is a proof to the power of hard work, perseverance, and an unrelenting passion for greatness.

Growing up in the esteemed Awe Ojolo Dynasty of Obanla Agaako of Ijesha land, Comptroller Awe was instilled with values of discipline, integrity, and compassion. His parents, revered for their wisdom and kindness, laid the foundation for his future success.

His academic journey, which began at St. John Primary School Okebode and Okebode Grammar School, was marked by a thirst for knowledge and a drive to succeed.

“I remember my parents always telling me that education was the key to success,” Comptroller Awe recalled, noting, “They encouraged me to dream big and work hard to achieve my goals.” And achieve he did. He proceeded to Government Secondary School Suleja, Niger State, and later obtained his Lower and Higher National Diplomas in Business Administration from Ibadan Polytechnic and Yaba College of Science and Technology, respectively. His academic pursuits didn’t stop there; he went on to secure his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Calabar and another Master’s in Public Administration from Ladoke Akintola University Ogbomosho.

Comptroller Awe’s 36-year tenure in the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has been a remarkable journey of service, sacrifice, and triumph. He joined the NCS on November 27, 1989, with a burning desire to make a difference. His service experience has taken him to various parts of the country, where he has served with distinction in different capacities, units, and commands, including Valuation, Export, Excise, Enforcement, and Intelligence.

“Comptroller Awe is a true leader, a team player, and a consummate professional,” said a colleague. “He has an uncanny ability to inspire and motivate those around him to strive for excellence.”

His exceptional performance earned him a promotion to the rank of Comptroller in 2023, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. As the Customs Area Comptroller of Murtala Muhammad Cargo Airport (MMAC), Comptroller Awe made an indelible mark on the NCS. His tenure was characterized by unprecedented revenue generation, spectacular seizures of arms, ammunition, and narcotics, and a record-breaking duty paid value of over 800 billion naira.

“Comptroller Awe is a game-changer,” said a senior officer. “He has brought a new level of professionalism and integrity to the NCS.”

Comptroller Awe’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. He has received accolades from his peers, superiors, and the presidency, who have recognized his unwavering commitment to excellence. He is a member of esteemed professional organizations, including the International Association of Chief of Police and the Institute of Corporate and Business Management of Nigeria, where he currently serves as National Vice President.

One of the most notable aspects of Comptroller Awe’s leadership is his ability to build bridges and foster collaboration. He has worked tirelessly to strengthen relationships between the NCS and other government agencies, as well as with the private sector. His efforts have led to the development of innovative solutions to complex challenges, and have helped to promote Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

Despite his numerous achievements, Comptroller Awe remains humble and grounded. “I am just a servant of the people,” he says. “I am proud to serve my country and make a difference in the lives of Nigerians.”

When he’s not working, Comptroller Awe enjoys spending time with his beautiful and supportive wife, Princess Folashade Faith Awe, and their four blessed children. He is a devoted family man, and his loved ones are his rock.

As Comptroller Awe looks to the future, he is filled with hope and optimism. He is committed to continuing to serve his country with distinction, and to making a lasting impact on the NCS and the nation as a whole. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

He has received the Presidential Extension in Public Service in 2024, Comptroller of the Year Award in 2023, and NCS Excellence Award in 2022. He is a member of the International Association of Chief of Police and the Institute of Corporate and Business Management of Nigeria, where he currently serves as National Vice President, and also a member of the Nigerian Customs Service Association.