…Welfare of retired officers top agenda
The South East Retired Customs Officers Association convened in Enugu for its Annual General Meeting, bringing together retired officers from across the region to focus on welfare initiatives, shared experiences, and the celebration of life after service.
The meeting, hosted by Chief Nwabueze Nnamani, a retired customs officer and former Council Chairman of Nkanu West took place on Saturday, 30th August, at his country home in Umuetugbu Oma, Akegbe Ugwu, Enugu.
While speaking with PACESETTER, the President of the Association, Hon. Uzochukwu Eminent, said the gathering, held once every year, serves as a forum for all retired customs officers from the five Eastern states to come together and address the welfare of their members.
According to him, the hosting of the AGM rotates among the states, and it was now Enugu’s turn. He acknowledged the positive changes in Enugu made by the current Governor since his early days in the city during his customs service. He said:
“Coming to Enugu is an eye-opener. Enugu is something else. I started my work here in Enugu in 1979; it wasn’t like this. This Governor came here and made it innovative.
Other governors should come to Enugu and be briefed on how to govern states. What is seen here is out of this world. It’s a landmark, it’s a masterpiece something you wouldn’t imagine happening in Nigeria. The few days I have spent here make one long to return.”
Hon. Uzochukwu noted that one of the key problems customs officers face is inadequate funding. He urged the National Assembly to pass legislation ensuring that anyone who serves the country is well taken care of, including access to housing and other basic amenities that support a good quality of life. This, he said, would allow officers to focus fully on their duties without external distractions.
Chief Sir Nwabueze Nnamani, the chief host, stated that the main purpose of the meeting was to discuss the challenges faced by retirees and explore possible solutions among themselves, while also seeking assistance from external sources.
Recalling his days in Customs before retiring 15 years ago, he said: “It was interesting, sometimes challenging. I enjoyed my stay in Customs.”
Barr. C.O.C. Chukwuma, a legal practitioner and retired customs officer, acknowledged that one of the common problems faced by retired officers is poor health. He said that in the course of serving the country, many endured harsh conditions frequent relocations, poor feeding, and inadequate rest.
“All of these have a big impact on our lives at this old age we are presently in. Most of us who wanted to be here are not here because of health issues,” said Barr. Chukwuma.
He appealed to the government to heed the cries of South East Retired Customs Officers whenever they speak out, adding that they would be deeply grateful.
He also advised younger officers still in active service to prioritize their health, noting that health is the foundation for life after service. “The future lies in their health,” he said.
Emphasizing the health challenges facing many retired officers, Mrs. Okpara Obiageli, wife of a retired customs officer, stated that many retirees are unwell, and a significant number are not yet aware of the Association. She expressed hope that as the AGM continues to rotate across states, more retirees will be encouraged to join.
The Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, also addressed attendees at the event.
Following the meeting, members of the Association paid a courtesy visit to Senator Okey Ezea, who is also a retired customs officer. They later toured the city, acknowledging the developmental efforts of the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. Sites visited included the International Conference Center, Presidential Hotel Enugu, Holy Ghost Bus Terminal, and Gariki Bus Terminal.
Also in attendance were traditional rulers, members of the Association, and other distinguished guests.