The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command has collaborated with Teach for Nigeria and empowered 100 primary school pupils from five schools in the Idiroko axis of Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

it was gathered that the initiative was spearheaded by Teach for Nigeria’s Cloth a Child Initiative, aiming to address the pressing issue of tattered school uniforms affecting the studies and well-being of pupils.

The Public Relations Officer Ogun 1 Area Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs Hammed Oloyede disclosed that the NCS and Teach for Nigeria identified 20 pupils from each of the selected schools for urgent intervention having recognised  the critical role education plays in shaping future generations.

He said the beneficial schools include Community Primary School Igbo Adiguns, Community Primary School Odan Aje, IPLG School 1 & II Idiroko, and Ipokia Local Government School Ikolaje.

The commendable initiative received praise from the NCS, which expanded its scope as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

 In addition to providing complete sets of uniforms, including socks, the NCS included essential writing materials such as books, stationery, chalks, and whiteboard markers to facilitate learning in the selected schools.

At the presentation ceremony held on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at IPLG School I & II Idiroko, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, represented by Deputy Comptroller Administration, DC Charles Ogunesan, expressed heartfelt congratulations to the beneficiaries. 

He emphasized the importance of parental involvement in their children’s education and commended Teach for Nigeria for spearheading such a impactful initiative.

Alhaja Oduntan Ireti, the Ipokia Local Government Education Secretary, highlighted the indispensable role of teachers in shaping society. 

She commended the collaborative efforts of the NCS and Teach for Nigeria in improving the learning conditions of the pupils, underscoring the significance of collective action in promoting education.

Mr. Bankole Joseph, the Education Officer, echoed appreciation for the support from Ogun 1 Command and urged the sustained synergy between the NCS and the education board. 

He extended gratitude to Teach for Nigeria for championing such a noble cause and encouraged continued support for the pupils.

Miss Hunnesi Florence, a primary 5 pupil of Community Primary School Igbo Adiguns, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the NCS. Mr. Babatunde Atteh, senior coach of Teach for Nigeria, expressed overwhelming joy at the success of the initiative and extended gratitude to the NCS for its unwavering support.

The event culminated with sincere expressions of gratitude from the parents of the beneficiaries, who recognized the profound impact of the educational support provided.

 The occasion was attended by various stakeholders, including the management team of Ogun 1 Command, representatives of the Department of State Security, members of the education board, head teachers, parents, Idiroko youths, and other dignitaries.