Compt Dauda Assumes Leadership Role In Cross River, Akwa Ibom, FTZ Command

BY TUNDE UMAR-DANIAH

As Jack Welch once said, “A leader’s job is to look into the future and see the organization, not as it is, but as it should be.”

Since assuming leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service on June 19, 2023, Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD, MFR, has spearheaded numerous reforms, showcasing his exceptional leadership acumen and positioning the organization for success locally and internationally.

One of his key strategies has been to instill confidence in his officers, fostering a culture of integrity, visionary thinking, innovative spirit, collaboration, strong communication, and resilience – the hallmarks of a winning streak.

Additionally, he prioritizes excellence and exceptional performances, rejecting mediocrity in all its forms. In line with this vision, Comptroller MG Dauda,  a seasoned officer with a proven track record, has been appointed Customs Area Controller of the Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and FTZ Command.

Known for his unwavering commitment to duty, Comptroller Dauda took over from Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Chukwudi Ogbonna, on December 5, 2025. Comptroller Dauda’s journey began as an officer cadet in 1992, following training at the Customs Training College, Goron-Dutse, Kano State.

His educational odyssey includes a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Marketing from Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri; a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Marketing from the University of Maiduguri; a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Master of Science (MSc) in Public Administration; and ongoing PhD studies in Public Administration at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State.

Throughout his illustrious career, Comptroller Dauda has served in various capacities, demonstrating astuteness, dedication, and excellence. His notable assignments include Borno Command, Port Harcourt Area 1, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, Western Marine Command, Apapa Area Command, and the Service Headquarters in Abuja amongst others.

A highlight of his career was a significant seizure of Tramaking (a Tramadol variant) worth ₦1,679,251,231.70 while serving as Officer in Charge of Classic Marine Terminal.

Comptroller Dauda embodies gallantry, purposefulness, and vision. His appointment is poised to positively impact the command and the Nigeria Customs Service, leveraging his exceptional expertise and ingenuity.