Dr Ben Oramalugo, the new Controller of Seme Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Tuesday urged officers to eliminate jealousy from their lives to achieve greatness.

Oramalugo gave the advice shortly after assuming office at the Seme-Krake command in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oramalugo took over from Comptroller Kayode Kolade, who had been transferred out of the command.

NAN also reports that Oramalugo was transferred from the Oyo/Osun Command, where he previously served as Area Controller.

The new controller stated that, according to the Bible, jealousy is a greater sin than murder.

“When you are jealous of your neighbours, friends, brothers, or co-workers, you can do anything—even poisoning them,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of building friendships while in service rather than waiting until retirement.

“This is the time to make friends, not enemies, because when you retire, you will need them.

“The greatest achievement in customs is forming friendships, not making enemies,” he said.

Oramalugo shared an example of a retired customs officer who became a governor and appointed former colleagues to key positions.

“If they were not on good terms, he wouldn’t have recommended them,” he noted.

“This is why it’s important to maintain good relationships with co-workers—nobody knows the future,” he said.

Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adeniyi Adewale, and the management for the opportunity to serve, acknowledging he was not the best among his peers.

“I am here to serve the government. My duty is to work. This is my third area command,” he said.

He highlighted his previous service in Kebbi State, where he received an award from NDLEA’s Director General, Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), for his role against drug abuse.

“I won three personal awards from customs in 2024, and I am bringing the same commitment to Seme Command,” he said.

He urged officers to support him in achieving success at the command.

“I want to accomplish great things here in Seme. I need your cooperation because I cannot do it alone.

“I don’t want to fail. I sincerely ask for your support,” he added.

Earlier, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Mr I. Musa, who is in charge of Enforcement, assured Oramalugo of the officers’ full cooperation in fulfilling the customs mandate.

NAN reports that senior officers and men of the command were on standby to welcome the new controller