The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has disclosed the identity of the senior customs officer who passed away on Tuesday after collapsing during a session of the Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives in Abuja.

Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, revealed that the deceased was Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, who served in the Account Unit of the service as Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue.

Maiwada explained that Essien was overseeing revenue reconciliation for the service when he tragically passed away while making a presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts.

Maiwada said, “During his presentation, approximately three minutes in, Deputy Comptroller Essien requested water and showed signs of discomfort. Despite immediate efforts to assist him, he unfortunately passed away.

“Deputy Comptroller Essien was born on the 16th of November 1967 and joined the Nigeria Customs Service on the 27th of November 1989 with over three decades of service to our nation. Hailing from Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he was known for his diligence and exceptional service record in the Accounts Unit. His role as the DC Revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication.”

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, On behalf of the entire officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien.

“The loss of such a dedicated and valued team member is deeply felt across the Service. We are committed to supporting and assisting his family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult period.”

The CGC stated, “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His exemplary service and unwavering commitment to duty will be remembered and cherished by the entire NCS community. The Nigeria Customs Service will forever remember Deputy Comptroller Essien for his outstanding contributions, his exemplary service, and his dedication to the nation. We honour his memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

Deputy Comptroller Essien is survived by his loving wife and children. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

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