…As COWA celebrates Children’s Day in Seme
The Controller of the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that protect and uplift children and families.
Kaila gave the assurance during the Children’s Day celebration organised by the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Seme Branch, on Saturday.
The controller, who was the Father of the Day, described children as the heartbeat of every society.
According to him, they are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the hope of today.
“In their laughter, we find renewal; in their curiosity, we find inspiration; and in their innocence, we are reminded of the kind of society we must strive to build — one that is safe, just, and full of opportunity.
“Every child deserves to grow up in an environment where they feel loved, protected, educated, and empowered to dream without limits.
“As we celebrate them today, we must also acknowledge the foundation on which their growth depends, which is the family.
“And within that foundation, the role of women cannot be overstated,” he said.
Kaila commended the leadership of COWA for initiating programmes aimed at the betterment of children.
“Ladies of COWA, you are the quiet strength behind our homes and behind the men and women who serve this nation at the border.
“While we are on duty protecting Nigeria’s economic and territorial integrity, you are on duty building character, instilling discipline, and nurturing the values that shape responsible citizens.
“A mother’s guidance is often the first lesson a child receives in honesty, resilience, respect, and patriotism.
“In many ways, you are raising the future of this country, one child at a time. COWA has gone beyond supporting families within our barracks.
“Through your outreach programmes, welfare initiatives, and support for education and health, you are extending that same care to the wider community,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of COWA, Mrs Mariam Abubakar, the Coordinator of Seme COWA, urged the children to express joy because of the bright future ahead of them.
She appealed to the children to study very hard so they could become the leaders of tomorrow.
Abubakar advised them to celebrate their day with joy and happiness.
The coordinator commended the controller for his support in providing financial assistance to COWA for the celebration of Children’s Day.
She said the leadership of the association appreciated his commitment to celebrating the day and supporting the welfare of members.
Some members of the association were presented with gifts, while the children were entertained with dances, the national anthem, singing, and other activities.
Winners in different categories were given gifts, while others received consolation gifts for attending the celebration.
