How DCG Nnadi Was Honoured in a Rare Grand Pull-Out

BY FUNMI ALUKO

Last Friday, history was made at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Training and Doctrine Command, Gwagwalada, Abuja, as Deputy Comptroller General of Customs (DCG) Dera Nnadi mni was ceremoniously pulled out of service after nearly 35 years of distinguished duty to fatherland.

The full ceremonial pull-out, a rare privilege believed to be reserved for only the most respected officers, was a spectacle of colour, tradition, and emotion. Senior officers, family members, and stakeholders gathered to pay tribute to a man whose career embodied discipline, integrity, and devotion to national service.

Leading the rich delegation was the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD, alongside five serving DCGs, underscoring the depth of respect accorded to Nnadi. His smile radiated through the parade, yet tears flowed freely during the thanksgiving service that followed, organised by the Nigeria Customs Christian Fellowship (NCCF).

Reflecting on his journey, Nnadi described Customs as more than a workplace, noting that it was a crucible that shaped his character, forged lifelong friendships, and gave him purpose through trade facilitation, revenue generation, and safeguarding of Nigeria’s borders.

During a brief valedictory address, An elated Dera Nnadi remarked, “If goodwill were cash, I would be retiring a billionaire,” acknowledging the immeasurable support from colleagues, friends, and family.

He paid glowing tribute to the Comptroller General and senior officers for their mentorship and collaboration, while also appreciating his family for enduring sacrifices that includes missed birthdays, late nights, and prolonged absences, which according to him “came on the line of duty.”

CGC Adeniyi making a remark during the Church Thanksgiving Service

To younger officers, Nnadi offered timeless counsel: protect the integrity of the Customs uniform, embrace innovation, and uphold professionalism. “Reputation travels faster than any cargo,” he reminded them, urging stakeholders to prioritize voluntary compliance with Customs regulations.

Having spent a significant part of his career as a Public Relations Officer, Nnadi also acknowledged the Nigerian media for shaping and promoting his Customs journey. He shared the ceremonial pull-out with Assistant Comptroller General Kingsley Egwuh, who charged officers to keep the Service’s flag flying high.

In the end, DCG Dera Nnadi’s farewell was more than a retirement, it was a celebration of a legacy built on service, sacrifice, and honour. His story now stands as an inspiration for generations of Customs officers to come.