By Olubunmi ISIOPKHE, Lagos
Creativity and Innovation are veritable tools for more revenue generation and improved trade facilitation with robust synergies; the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has premiered a groundbreaking film, Beyond the Badge, a tribute to the NCS’s unwavering commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders.
The event, held in Lagos on Thursday, 22 November 2024, at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, brought together film enthusiasts, stakeholders, and customs officers.
Senior officers and cast members highlighted the film’s impact and significance.
In his remarks, the film’s producer, Agozie Ugwu, said, “Customs officers and men are very firm people, very disciplined. We made a lot of sacrifices, shooting in the rain and under the sun. I didn’t know much about the service, but with love and humility, they corrected me. They contributed immensely to the process, and if I had shot this without them, it would have been a disaster.”
Stakeholders praised the production and called for a sequel or a series.
Reacting to the outing, the Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Customs Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, commented on the film’s portrayal of customs officers’ daily routines.
His words: “Beyond the Badge shows what customs officers go through to secure the country. People don’t know about the hazards we face, the health risks, or the trauma our families endure. This film is just the tip of the iceberg.”
However, ‘Beyond the Badge’ has been hailed landmark production that showcases the bravery, resilience, and dedication of customs officers to national security and economic development.
