'We must put Ghana first in everything we do' - Customs Commissioner Kanor charges officers

The Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, Aaron Kanor, has charged Customs officers to put the national interest first in the discharge of their duties, stressing the need for professionalism, discipline and commitment to national security.

“We must put Ghana first in everything we do,” he stated, urging officers to remain dedicated to protecting the country’s revenue, facilitating legitimate trade and safeguarding Ghana’s borders against smuggling and other illegal activities.

Kanor also warned that management would not tolerate indiscipline or any conduct capable of tarnishing the image of the Customs Division, calling on personnel to uphold high standards of work ethics and professionalism.

He made the remarks during a four-day operational tour of the Oti Region from February 3 to 6, 2026, as part of a nationwide exercise to assess operational efficiency, strengthen border security and improve revenue mobilisation.

Accompanied by Deputy Commissioners Theresa Potakey, in charge of Operations, and Mrs. Nana Birago Owusu Ansah, responsible for Suspense Regime, the Commissioner visited several operational checkpoints under the Dambai Collection.

The locations included Manuso, Atiamanso Post, Poase Cement and Tingyase. The delegation also included Mr. Christopher Mohammed Mosongo, Chairman of the Senior Staff Association.

During engagements with officers, Kanor emphasised the importance of their responsibilities in protecting the national purse, preventing smuggling and ensuring public safety, while facilitating legitimate trade.

The officers welcomed the visit, describing it as an important morale booster that made them feel recognised and connected to the leadership of the Division.

They, however, appealed to management to provide additional logistical support, particularly vehicles and motorbikes, to improve surveillance, monitoring and patrol operations, especially along remote routes and unapproved entry points.

In response, Kanor acknowledged the concerns and assured the personnel that management would prioritise measures to address their logistical challenges and strengthen operational effectiveness.

The Oti Region visit forms part of Kanor’s nationwide operational tour, which has already taken him to the Upper East, Volta, Western, Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions.

He is expected to visit the remaining regions to engage directly with officers, assess challenges confronting operations and mobilise personnel towards achieving the Customs Division’s national revenue targets.

The tour ended with a renewed commitment by officers in the Oti Region to protect Ghana’s revenue, strengthen border security and place the country’s interest at the centre of their responsibilities.

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