The Nigeria Customs Service in partnership with the Bella Amor Global Aid Foundation has launched a strategic humanitarian and skills empowerment initiative aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable (Almajiri) and marginalized children in Kano State.
The event, held at the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, brought together senior customs officers, government officials, community leaders, stakeholders, members of licensed customs agents associations, and religious leaders to witness the flag-off ceremony.
Speaking during the event, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Usman Adamu, described the programme as a reflection of the Service’s commitment to humanity, community development, and the welfare of vulnerable children.
“The initiative is designed to provide educational support, mentorship, welfare assistance, and skills acquisition opportunities that would help children build better futures and contribute positively to society.
“sustainable national development can only be achieved through investment in people, particularly the younger generation, while empowering children with knowledge and skills strengthens communities and secures a brighter future for the nation, he added.
Adamu revealed that both organizations had earlier distributed food items and educational materials to vulnerable members of society in other locations, adding that Kano State had now become another beneficiary of the humanitarian gesture.
Usman further reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service not only to its statutory responsibilities of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and border security, but also to initiatives that positively impact communities and improve lives.
He urged beneficiaries of the programme to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to learning and self-development, noting that the opportunities provided would serve as stepping stones toward a better tomorrow.
In her key-note address, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Zone B, Nsikan Umoh, described the humanitarian and educational support programme in the State as a demonstration of the Service’s commitment to social responsibility and community development.
She noted that every child deserves care, support, and the opportunity for a better future regardless of background.
According to her, the initiative is being implemented under the Nigeria Customs Service Social Responsibility Policy introduced in February 2025 through the “Customs Cares” programme.
Umoh further disclosed that about 5,000 pupils in religious (Tsangaya) schools would benefit from feeding programmes, while five schools across Kano State would directly benefit from the intervention.
She added that beyond the distribution of materials, the initiative is aimed at restoring hope among vulnerable children and encouraging them to embrace education and skills acquisition for a brighter future.
In her remarks, the foundation’s president Mirabel Etuk described the collaboration with the Customs Service as productive and impactful.
According to her, the partnership has led to the successful execution of several humanitarian programmes across five states, positively affecting the lives of vulnerable persons and communities.
She disclosed that the Kano programme marks the pilot phase of a major humanitarian project that would be implemented in about five phases, beginning with the distribution of Qur’ans, Jalabia garments, and the commencement of a feeding programme.