By Bon Peters
The Federation of Muslim Women’s Association in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Imo State Chapter, has paid a courtesy visit Wednesday to Comptroller Bishir Abdulahi Balogun, the Customs Controller, Federal Operations unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, the Imo State capital.
Leading other executive members, (FOMWAN) President, Mrs. Anifat Bola Animashaun Ameerah in her remarks said “FOMWAN, established in 1985, serves as a civil society and an umbrella for Muslim Women Associations across Nigeria, operating in all 36 states and Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, with a presence in over 700 local government areas.
“Our focus areas encompass education, Da’awah, health, humanitarian and community development, good governance, youths, finance and resource mobilization, projects and capacity building.”
She noted that the visit has accorded them the opportunity to welcome Comptroller Balogun officially to Imo State, as they expressed appreciation for his humility and adherence to Islamic values, which they said had captured their admiration and prompted FOMWAN to visit him.
Her words, “sir, please permit us to inform you that FOMWAN as a national body holds Annual Conference which is rotated among states. The 40th Anniversary of FOMWAN in 2012, Imo state hosted the annual conference and it was a huge success.
“This year August 19th to 24th, 2025, Kaduna will host all the states and preparations have been seriously going on. Imo Chapter must participate with others” she said
The FOMWAN leader reiterated that “As we navigate our activities in Imo State, we sincerely hope for your continuous guidance and encouragement. It is with great respect and admiration that we propose to adopt you as our patron, understanding the importance of your role.”
The association further wished Comptroller Balogun a joyous stay in the state praying that Allah should continue to guide him in his task of overseeing the Customs Federal Operations Unit Zone C Imo State.
Addressing the association, the elated Comptroller Balogun expressed satisfaction with the visit, adding that “I’m very delighted for this show of gratitude and care towards me in particular and the unit in general.”
He said, “Mothers will always be Mothers,” noting that “everyman no matter how highly placed must accord our mothers respect which they deserve.”
On the synergy between Customs FOU Zone C, and FOMWAN, he informed them that his wife being the chapter Chairperson of Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA) in FOU Zone C, Owerri, is automatically their member, assuring them of his support and encouragement to move their association forward.
Comptroller, Balogun said, “I have listened carefully to your address, and am glad to inform you that some of the things you said are in-line with the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR mandate on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of the Nigeria Customs Service.
“FOU Zone C, Owerri, will be glad to partner with your association and accord you recognition” he assured.
