Renowned Traditional Ruler, Usman Kankara Bello mni Extols MARAN at 38

Renowned Traditional Ruler, Usman Kankara Bello mni Extols MARAN at 38

Alhaji Usman Kankara Bello mni, Head of Ketare District, Katsina

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN has received a warm accolade from a renowned Traditional Ruler and a former Comptroller of Customs, the Kanwan Katsina District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara mni, who recently extended his heartfelt goodwill message to the association as it marked her 38 years anniversary.

At the event, held in Apapa Lagos, which was uniquely packaged to celebrate the association’s past Presidents, the former Comptroller of Customs fondly called UK Bello, and One-time Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Apapa and Tin Can Island Customs Commands, in his goodwill message reflected on his long-standing relationship with MARAN, which dates back to 1989 when he was a Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC)

He recalled being introduced to the association by then-president Mr. Asu Beks, whom he fondly referred to as “Asu the Best.” 

Ably represented by a veteran journalist Mr Tunde Ojudun at the event, the former PRO who rose to become a respected Comptroller of Customs and now a renowned Traditional Ruler, the Kanwan Katsina District Head of Ketare Monarch, praised successive MARAN presidents, including Mr. Pius Mordi, the late Mr. Ray Ugochwuku, and Mr. Sesan Onileimo, for their dedication and professionalism.

He as well noted that MARAN’s coverage and support played a pivotal role in his career, citing his recognition and award as Best PRO of the Nigeria Customs Service in 1999 in Port-Hacourt Rivers state and also Tin Can Island Port Command’s award as Best Publicized Command in 2000 in Abekuta Ogun State During the Comptroller General of Customs Annual conference respectively.

He also fondly remembered hosting monthly press briefings at the MARAN Press Centre in Apapa,  Lagos describing them as lively sessions that fostered camaraderie and strengthened ties between Customs and the media, noting that these press briefings extolled confidence a PRO still continue to maintain strong ties with MARAN members, a testament to the enduring bond share.

Although unable to attend the celebration in person, the Kanwan Katsina, conveyed his deep respect and affection for MARAN, wishing the association and its members continued success, good health, and prosperity.