In an emotional ceremony to mark the end of his administration as vice chair of the West & Central Africa arm of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), Nigeria’s Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi has handed over office to his successor, director general of Mali Customs, Amadou Konate, with a charge entrench efficient trade facilitation policies and pilot the affairs of the body to great heights.
CGC Adeniyi also urged the global customs to make conscious efforts to encourage the younger generation of Customs officers to enhance trade facilitation and revenue generation for the growth of the region.
Adeniyi made the call on Tuesday at the handing-over ceremony to the new vice chair in Abuja to formally mark the beginning of a new era in the administration of the organisation.
Nigeria was elected in May 2022 by the 180 Customs organisation that make up the WCO that provides cutting-edge e-learning platforms designed to empower Customs professionals around the world with comprehensive knowledge and skills.
Customs are charged to fast track the economy and also learn best practices for different customs organisations so we give them the best opportunity and environment to learn and finally we find opportunities to provide mentorship to each other.
“It was a pleasure to have served the west and central African region,” Adeniyi said, adding that the opportunity has given him an exposure to global best practices in trade facilitation and port administration.
The incoming vice chair, Konate appreciated the outgoing cabinet for its work at advancing the activities of the region. He thanked the CGC for his dedication, leadership and innovation. Under your leadership, we have overcome many challenges we are now proud of.
He said the record achievements of Adewale would be kept for use in the administration of the organisation with renewed determination.
“Our commitment is to continue the momentum of our predecessor. The vice Presidency will conduct its activities within its values and ethics,” he stated.
