Stakeholders Laud Adeniyi’s Election As World Customs Organisation’s Chairperson

Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s election as the chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) has been widely lauded by stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector.

Recall that Adeniyi was on Saturday elected the WCO Chairperson at Brussels during the concluding session of the 145th/146th WCO Council Meetings.

He succeeds Edward Kieswetter, commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, and becomes the first Nigerian to hold this prestigious office since the WCO’s establishment.

Stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector have taken turns to congratulate the Customs CG, describing his election as worthy.

Speaking, the president, Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria  (APFFLON), Otunba Frank Ogunojemite, described Adeniyi’s appointment as a prestigious role to his exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to enhancing global Customs standards and practices.

“Your vast experience and profound understanding of the complexities of international trade and customs will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the organisation. This is a remarkable achievement not only for you but also for Nigeria, as it signifies our nation’s growing influence in the global arena.

“As you embark on this new chapter, I am confident that your vision will guide the World Customs Organisation towards innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships that benefit all member countries.”

Also, the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC), said the Customs CG’s leadership has brought a refreshing style that is result-driven, innovative, and people-oriented to the Service.

In a press statement by the head of Research, SEREC, Eugene Nweke, the group said the revenue growth from N3.2 trillion in 2023 to N6.105 trillion in 2024 is a testament to Adeniyi’s effective policies and commitment to blocking leakages and tightening enforcement.

“SEREC extends its warmest congratulations to you and your management team on the remarkable achievements recorded under your leadership in the past two years. The significant revenue growth, improved welfare for officers, and commitment to technology and policy reforms are truly commendable.

“Your leadership has brought a refreshing style that is result-driven, innovative, and people-oriented. The revenue growth from N3.2 trillion in 2023 to N6.105 trillion in 2024 is a testament to your effective policies and commitment to blocking leakages and tightening enforcement.”

Also, president of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Emenike Nwokeoji, noted that inspiring leadership capacity, astute administration, key agenda, the reinvigoration of the modernisation of Customs processes and efficient implementation of government policies were clear signs that Adeniyi has taken the NCS to a higher pedestal.

He stated that he was not surprised about the emergence of Adeniyi, said the association and its members are very proud of the CGC and wished him a successful tenure as chairperson of the global customs organisation.

“What has happened shows that on the international stage, Nigeria is no longer a pushover. Here is another chance that portrays us as capable people and trustworthy partners.

“It also shows that all we do here is not negative, CGC Adeniyi has made Nigeria proud. On behalf of the leadership of ANLCA and its members, we share in the joy of this moment because, however you look at this beautiful event and development, we feel a sense of belonging and share in the joy of our CGC occupying the chairmanship seat as partners,” Nwokeoji said.