Lifestyle
Hameed Ali: A Military Strategist Turned Customs Reformer
Hameed Ali, a retired Nigerian Army Colonel, emerged as a central figure in Nigeria’s public sector reform during his tenure as the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Known for his no-nonsense disposition, anti-corruption stance, and strict adherence to discipline, Ali brought a military-style leadership approach to one of Nigeria’s most revenue-generating and corruption-prone institutions.
Military Career and Background
Before his foray into public administration, Hameed Ali had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army. A career officer, he served in various strategic roles until his retirement. His military background significantly influenced his leadership style—characterized by discipline, austerity, and an uncompromising demand for transparency.
Appointment as Comptroller General
In August 2015, Hameed Ali was appointed Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, who had previously worked with him and trusted his capacity to instill order and accountability. At the time, the Customs Service was under scrutiny for inefficiencies and revenue leakages, and Ali’s appointment was seen as a bold move to sanitize the institution.
Despite initial skepticism—especially as he was not a career Customs officer—Ali set out to overhaul the system from the top down.
Reforms and Achievements in Customs
Under Ali’s leadership, the NCS undertook several reforms aimed at:
Increasing revenue collection: He pushed aggressively for the automation of Customs processes, implementation of anti-smuggling operations, and tightening of port and border controls. These efforts paid off with the Service generating over ₦2.2 trillion in 2021, and targeting ₦3.1 trillion in 2022.
Combating corruption: Ali introduced a number of integrity checks and oversight mechanisms, leading to disciplinary actions against erring officers. His approach was often firm, prioritizing results over popularity.
Professionalism and transparency: He initiated reforms aimed at standardizing operations, minimizing human contact in port processes, and leveraging technology for better accountability.
Ali’s methods often drew both praise and criticism. While stakeholders applauded his results and firmness, critics accused him of being too rigid and militaristic in a civilian agency. Nonetheless, he stayed focused on his mandate.
Public Image and Legacy
Hameed Ali carved out a reputation as a principled public servant, largely seen as incorruptible and loyal to national interest. Though he kept a low media profile, his performance often spoke louder than public statements.
His tenure was not without controversy. There were tensions with lawmakers over his refusal to wear the Customs uniform, which he insisted was unnecessary given his status as a retired military officer and political appointee. Despite such standoffs, he remained unshaken and continued in office for eight years—one of the longest tenures in the agency’s recent history.
Hameed Ali’s career reflects the story of a soldier who brought discipline and reform to a civil institution long marred by inefficiencies and corruption. While opinions about his style remain divided, his impact on the Nigeria Customs Service is undeniable. He left behind a more revenue-focused, structured, and digitized agency that continues to play a critical role in Nigeria’s economy.
FOLLOW US ON:
In this deeply emotional video, a young Nigerian boy shares his heart-wrenching experience of racial and cultural discrimination in a foreign school.
His only wish? To come back home to Nigeria where he feels he belongs.
But the harsh reality hits hard — the state of things back home is not encouraging. From insecurity to poor infrastructure, his dream of returning feels more like a painful trap than a comforting escape.
This video captures the raw truth many Nigerians in the diaspora silently endure. It’s a cry for acceptance, identity, and the longing for a better Nigeria that can welcome its own with pride.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments. Can Nigeria ever truly become home again?
🔔 Don’t forget to *like, **comment, and **subscribe* for more powerful stories that reflect the true experiences of Nigerians worldwide.
FOLLOW US ON:
Historic Declaration: Oba Sen. Abdulrasheed Ladoja Crowned as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland | Full Council Pronouncement
In a momentous and culturally significant event, the Olubadan-in-Council officially pronounces His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Abdulrasheed Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
This video captures the traditional pronouncement ceremony, a sacred rite deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the ancient Yoruba kingdom. Witness history as Ibadan land ushers in a new era under the leadership of a revered statesman, respected elder, and true son of the soil.
📍 Location: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
👑 Title: Olubadan of Ibadanland – The Paramount Ruler of the Ibadan People
🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more cultural and historical moments from Nigeria.
FOLLOW US ON:
Oba Akenzua II, born on 7 January 1899, was a respected traditional ruler and modernizer who served as the 37th Oba of Benin from 1933 until his passing on 11 June 1978. His reign marked a critical period of transition in the Benin Kingdom, blending deep-rooted tradition with the evolving dynamics of colonial and postcolonial Nigeria.
Early Life and Ascension
Born Godfrey Edokparige Akenzua, he was the son of Oba Eweka II and succeeded his father upon his death in 1933.
His title, Ọmọ n’Ọba n’Ẹdo Uku Akpolokpolo, which translates to “King of Kings of Edo, the Mighty Thinker”, reflected the grandeur and intellectual depth associated with his leadership.
Reign and Achievements
Preservation of Culture: Oba Akenzua II was instrumental in preserving Benin’s cultural heritage, especially the famed Benin bronzes. He actively campaigned for the return of looted royal artifacts taken during the 1897 British punitive expedition.
Modernization: While rooted in tradition, he encouraged education, healthcare, and infrastructural development in Benin and beyond, maintaining strong ties with both colonial authorities and later Nigerian leaders.
He served as a member of the Western House of Chiefs, using his position to advocate for his people’s welfare and cultural pride.
Legacy
Oba Akenzua II’s reign lasted 45 years, one of the longest in Benin history, marked by stability, cultural revival, and national recognition.
Upon his death in 1978, he was succeeded by his son, Oba Erediauwa, formerly Prince Solomon Akenzua.
Today, he is remembered as a visionary monarch, guardian of heritage, and father of modern Benin royal diplomacy.
Oba Akenzua II’s impact continues to resonate, particularly in ongoing discussions about the repatriation of Benin artifacts from European museums.
FOLLOW US ON:
-
Education2 weeks agoHow A Class Of 24 Students Produced 2 Presidents, 4 Governors, 2 Ministers, 4 Emirs, 3 Justices, 4 Ambassadors and Other Influential Leaders
-
News2 weeks ago‘Sleeping Prince’ of Saudi Arabia dies after 20 years in coma
-
News2 weeks agoWhy Do You Continue To Lie Against Your Motherland? Presidency Calls Out Kemi Badenoch
-
News1 week agoLagos belongs to no tribe – Sowore kicks against renaming of Charly Boy Bus Stop, others
-
Lifestyle2 weeks agoPeople Who Abandon Their Heritage Do So At Their Own Peril – Gani Adams Warns
-
Politics2 weeks ago‘If I don’t give you electricity, don’t vote for me again’ – ADC reminds Tinubu of failed promise
-
News1 week agoYou can’t lie about your country and then we keep quiet – Dabiri-Erewa slams Kemi Badenoch over claim on Nigerian citizenship
-
Lifestyle2 weeks agoActor Odunlade Adekola has sadly lost his father