“MARAN shaped my Customs career.”- Kanwan Katsina Celebrates Association at 38 , recalls 35 year Ties
*‘MARAN Shaped My Customs Career’ — Kanwan Katsina Celebrates Association at 38, Recalls 35-Year Ties
By Babatunde Aremu
The Kanwan Katsina and District Head of Ketare, His Royal Highness Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara, mni, says the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) was instrumental to his success as a former Customs spokesman, as the association marks 38 years of existence.
In a goodwill message to MARAN’s reception for its past presidents held Friday at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, the retired Comptroller of Customs said he has been “part and parcel of MARAN” since 1989.
“My journey with MARAN began in 1989, barely a year after its foundation, when I served as PRO of Apapa Customs Command,” Kankara said.
“It was Mr. Asu Beks — who I fondly called ‘Asu Best’ — then President of MARAN, who first introduced me to the association.”
The royal father said he maintained a “warm and fruitful relationship” with successive MARAN presidents, including Pius Mordi, the late Ray Ugochukwu, Sesan Onileimo, and others.
He credited MARAN’s coverage for two key career honours.
“Through MARAN’s coverage and support, I was honoured to be named Best PRO of the Nigeria Customs Service in 1999 at the CGC Annual Conference in Port Harcourt,” he said. “Likewise, MARAN’s efforts helped Tin Can Island Port Command win the Best Publicized Command Trophy in 2000 at the CGC Conference in Abeokuta.”
Kankara recalled his monthly press briefings at the MARAN Centre, Apapa, as “cherished memories” marked by “lively engagements and camaraderie” with members whose “dedication and professionalism greatly contributed to my success.”
He added that the bond has lasted beyond active service.
“Even after my retirement from Customs ten years ago, I continue to maintain strong ties with MARAN members, a testament to the enduring bond we share.”
The District Head said he was unable to attend Friday’s event due to “pressing security challenges in my domain in Katsina State,” but sent his “deep respect and affection” to the association.
He wished MARAN and its members “continued success, good health, and prosperity.”
