At the helm of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has transformed the agency through automation, anti-corruption initiatives, and revenue-generation.
His leadership, earning national honors and awards, has modernized customs operations, fortified trade logistics, and reinforced national security.
As CGC since 2023, Adeniyi remains a formidable figure in Nigeria’s public service committed to institutional excellence and transparent leadership.
Bashir Adewale Adeniyi Biography
Bashir Adewale Adeniyi was born in Modakeke, Osun State, Adeniyi graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, earning a BSc in International Relations (1987). Years later, he added a Master’s in Communications Science from Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano (2013).
Wiki-Bio
| Full Name | Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi |
| Current Role | Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Hometown | Modakeke, Osun State |
| Honor | Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) conferred in Oct. 2022 |
Customs Service Career & Rise Through the Ranks
Early Start and PR Leadership (1987–2012)
Joining the Nigeria Customs Service over three decades ago, Adeniyi built his foundation in public relations, eventually serving as the longest-serving National Public Relations Officer (2003–2011).
Customs Leadership Roles (2012–2023)
- Promoted to Deputy Comptroller in 2012.
- Held key roles: Customs National Public Relations Officer, Customs Command & Staff College Deputy Commandant, and Area Controller at MMIA.
- As Assistant Comptroller-General (from 2020), he led major enforcement operations; most notably overseeing the seizure of US$8.07 million at Lagos airport in 2020.
As Comptroller-General (2023–Present)
In June 2023, President Tinubu appointed Adeniyi Acting Comptroller-General; by October 2023, he secured the position substantively.
Major Reforms & Achievements
- Implemented operational reforms: dissolved redundant strike teams and streamlined checkpoints, reducing corruption and facilitating trade.
- Boosted monthly revenue by 70-75%, leading to a record ₦3.2 trillion in 2023 and over ₦6.1 trillion in 2024.
- Strengthened anti-smuggling, leading to thousands of seizures: arms, wildlife contraband, codeine syrup and occasional interception of diverted petroleum.
- Pioneered digital customs initiatives: Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), Time Release Study, geospatial monitoring, and B’Odogwu platform enhancing transparency and trade efficiency.
- Acquired a Cessna Grand Caravan for aerial surveillance in border enforcement.
- In a major international milestone, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, has been elected as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council; the top decision-making body overseeing customs operations in 186 member nations worldwide.
Recognition & Awards
- Named Public Service Person of the Year 2024 by Leadership magazine.
- Won Public Sector Global ‘CEO of the Week’ in August 2024.
- Honored by the Industrial Training Fund in Nov 2024 for championing officer training and modernization.
- Received a national commendation at the Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service for outstanding revenue collection.
Public Engagement & Thought Leadership
- Delivered the 7th Convocation Lecture at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism on “AI & Public Governance” in May 2025.
- Spoke at UNIFEMGA 2025 Reunion on cross-border trade and security.
- Addressed the National Defence College on anti-smuggling and inter-agency collaboration in 2025.
- Elevated to Vice Chair, Body of Advisers, Nigeria Reputation Management Group during NPRW 2025.
Personal Life & Identity
The CGC was born in Modakeke, Osun State, Adeniyi keeps his personal and family life private. His leadership reputation is rooted in integrity, professionalism, and a reform-first mindset.
Net Worth & Lifestyle
No public estimates of personal wealth exist. However, his status as CGC, international recognition, and institutional contributions suggest a stable, well-compensated position with associated benefits.
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