President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his landmark election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, describing it as a moment of pride for Nigeria and a major boost to the nation’s global economic profile.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded Adeniyi’s emergence as a testament to Nigeria’s rising influence in international customs and trade affairs.
“I congratulate the Customs boss for bringing pride and validation to our country and the economic reforms. I urge the new Chairperson of the WCO to live up to the expectations of the Council and even surpass them,” the President said.
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Adeniyi, who was unanimously elected during the 145th/146th sessions of the WCO Council in Brussels, becomes the first Nigerian to lead the 73-year-old global customs body, which consists of 186 member nations. His tenure will officially commence on July 1, 2025, taking over from Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service.
As Chairperson, Adeniyi will play a pivotal role in steering the WCO’s policy direction, setting international standards, and promoting operational harmony across customs administrations worldwide.
“His election is not only a personal achievement but also a national milestone that reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global trade reforms and international cooperation,” Tinubu emphasized.
The President also extended his appreciation to the WCO Secretary-General and the leadership of the Council for backing Adeniyi’s candidacy and assured them of Nigeria’s unwavering support during his term.
The election is widely seen as a diplomatic and institutional victory for Nigeria, as the country’s flag was officially raised at the WCO headquarters for the first time since its founding in 1952; a symbolic affirmation of Nigeria’s place on the global customs stage.
Commendation for Performance and Reforms
President Tinubu praised Adeniyi’s impressive track record since taking over the leadership of the NCS two years ago. Under his stewardship, the service has witnessed:
- Increased revenue generation and fiscal performance
- Improved stakeholder engagement
- Reforms through digital innovation
- Modernisation of customs operations across the country
The President noted that Adeniyi’s elevation is the result of hard work, strategic leadership, and Nigeria’s evolving presence in international institutions.
As the world watches, Adeniyi’s tenure is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s voice in shaping global customs frameworks; another milestone under Tinubu’s reform-focused administration.
