By Ebunoluwa Sessou

It was a moment of celebration and commendation as friends, family members and well-wishers converged on Ikeja, Lagos, to honour Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, ACG, Ejibunu Hussein Kehinde (Rtd.), following his retirement from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) after 35 years of meritorious service.

Ejibunu retired as ACG, Finance and Administration (Special Duties) and National Coordinator, Operation Whirlwind a special task force established in May 2024 by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service to combat the smuggling and diversion of petroleum products across Nigeria’s borders.

Since its inception, Operation Whirlwind recorded remarkable successes nationwide, including the seizure of over 1.75 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) conveyed through trucks, boats and other means, with an estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N2.2 billion.

Having served with distinction across the six geo-political zones of the country, ACG Kehinde was widely described as an officer who exemplified integrity, discipline and unwavering commitment to national service. His strategic leadership and operational expertise contributed significantly to revenue generation, enforcement efficiency and the elevation of professional standards within the Service.

From the South-West to the North-East and North-West border commands, his impact remains etched in the institutional framework of the Nigeria Customs Service. His tenure witnessed innovations in enforcement protocols, strengthened inter-agency collaboration and the promotion of inclusive leadership that inspired officers and stakeholders alike.

Speaking on his personality, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (Rtd.), Barr. Kudaisi Toyin, described Ejibunu as a diligent, efficient and upright officer.

“He was very honest in his approach to issues. I believe many opportunities lie ahead of him, and I am optimistic he will not disappoint,” Toyin said.

Also speaking, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (Rtd.), Mohammed Abba-Kura, recalled working closely with Ejibunu over several years at the Customs headquarters.

“I know him to be a very hardworking and dedicated officer who took assignments seriously,” Abba-Kura said. “When I became DCG, Enforcement, Investigation and Inspection, he came directly under me. His posting to the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) was a case of putting a square peg in a square hole.”

According to him, Ejibunu’s tenure at FOU Zone A transformed the unit into a model for other FOUs nationwide.

“He reorganised the unit and set a benchmark that other FOUs—Zones B, C and D—emulated. His achievements included seizures of arms, ammunition, Indian hemp, dangerous drugs and smuggled luxury vehicles. He truly earned every promotion he received,” he added.

Abba-Kura further noted Ejibunu’s outstanding performance as head of the unit created to curb petroleum product smuggling, describing his leadership as impactful and result-driven.

“I wish him a fulfilling retirement. Though retired, he is not tired. With his vast experience, the Service should continue to tap into his knowledge, especially in training enforcement officers. I wish him success in all his future endeavours, including farming,” he said.