By Stanley Senya
Accra, March 29, GNA- The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has organised a farewell ceremony for Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, the out-going Commissioner of the Customs Division.
The ceremony brought together heads of sister security agencies, staff, and families of Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo to witness the colourful ceremony.
The outgoing Commissioner inspected the guard of honour paraded by the Customs Division personnel.
Mr Anthony Kwasi Sarpong Deputy Commissioner General of GRA, commended Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo for his remarkable contribution and exemplary leadership to the nation over the past years.
The Customs Divisions, under the tenure of the outgoing Commissioner, the Commission General said witnessed improvement through innovation and technology.
The division, he stressed, saw advancements in trade facilitation, travel, and economic growth.
Mr Sarpong said the ceremony did not only mark the end of his service to the nation but also the beginning of a new chapter due to his expertise in the sector.
“Your commitment to humanity, integrity, and dedication to public service issues are well appreciated, and we hope to sustain the partnership for a prosperous nation,” he said.
He was optimistic that the Customs Division would improve the gains made by the outgoing Commissioner and have a positive impact on security and revenue mobilisation.
Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, in his remarks, thanked the government and management of the Authority for the confidence they reposed in him, saying, “It was the greatest privilege to serve the nation.”
“We have overcome challenges, embraced reforms, and worked tirelessly to improve efficiency and service delivery. Through the dedication and hard work of each officer of the Division, we have strengthened our operations, enhanced border security, and adopted modern technologies to streamline our processes,” he said.
He said the achievements were not the work of one individual, but the collective effort of a committed and hardworking team.
Among his achievements, he said in 2024, the Customs Division was tasked to mobilise Gh¢41.33 billion as its revenue target, hence, by the end of the year, the Division collected Gh¢45.27 billion, representing an excess collection of Gh¢3.94 billion 9.5 per cent, indicating a growth by 47 per cent over the year 2023.
He said the Division, in collaboration with the Customs Staff Association and the University of Cape Coast, successfully launched the Masters of Science and Masters of Philosophy in Customs Administration. “This initiative provides an excellent opportunity for officers to further their knowledge, enhance their expertise, and accelerate their promotions”, he said.
He said another great achievement was the promotion of a high number of management members over the period. These promotions have served as a strong morale booster and increased efficiency within the Division.
“While we have achieved a great deal, there are some key initiatives that remain unfinished. I am hopeful that my successor will see through to the completion of the elevation of the Tema Collection to a Deputy Commissioner position, establishment of the Customs Marine Unit, establishment of the Authorized Economic Operators Secretariat, establishment of a Ghana Revenue Authority Hospital, among others.
He urged the in-coming Commissioner to ensure the completion and start of the projects to chart a new path of growth for the Customs Division.
“You are taking over a team of hardworking and capable officers, and I trust that you will build upon the solid foundation laid. I am confident that with your expertise and vision, you will lead the Division to even more remarkable achievements”, he added.
Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, the Commissioner of Customs, thanked the government for the honour, and pledged to serve with integrity, dedication, and excellence.
He also pledged to embrace emerging technology and best practices to enhance the operations of the Customs Divisions and to operate an open door policy and and would prioritise their welfare.
GNA
GRB