By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in a bid to enhance living conditions for officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, announced a strategic partnership with the Cooperative Mortgage Bank to construct 5,009 housing units nationwide.
This was disclosed on December 18th at the Pacesetter Garden Estate, Ajoda Ibadan, Oyo State.
Joined by notable figures such as the National President of Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, and other senior officers, CGC Adeniyi emphasized the scheme’s positive impact on the morale and efficiency of Customs personnel.
While acknowledging the temporary relief provided through staff quarters, CGC Adeniyi expressed concerns about retirement and subsequent vacation from these facilities.
The collaboration with Cooperative Mortgage Bank aims to establish a sustainable housing solution, constructing diverse residences, including two-bedroom terrace bungalows and three-bedroom terrace duplexes in strategic locations like Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Asaba, Masaka, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Abuja.
CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude to partners such as Cooperative Mortgage Bank, Modern Shelter, and Brains & Hammers for their crucial role in this flagship housing program.
Tajudeen Aiyeola, President of the Cooperative Association of Nigeria, advocated for government intervention in providing low-cost housing nationwide.
He stressed the cooperative sector’s significance in implementing social and economic programs for the welfare of Nigerians.
Aiyeola commended the Nigeria Customs Service for prioritizing the middle and lower classes, urging other agencies to follow suit.
He emphasized the need for collective efforts from the government, parastatals, agencies, and the private sector to focus on member welfare and reduce turnaround time in Nigeria.
Representing Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Special Assistant commended the initiative for its potential contribution to the state’s economic development.
He urged support for the project, recognizing its capacity to boost the economy and provide value to Nigerian agencies.
The event concluded with the distribution of housing documents to recipients, group photographs, and a tour showcasing various types of residences, highlighting the commitment to eradicating poverty and fostering economic development in Nigeria.