Nigeria’s global Customs influence grows as Adeniyi secures re-election – MARCON

Stanley Ihedigbo

Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his re-election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, describing the feat as a major milestone for Nigeria and a strong affirmation of the country’s growing influence in global customs administration.

The association said Adeniyi’s return as Chairperson of the WCO Council reflects the confidence reposed in his leadership by customs administrations across the world and serves as international recognition of the far-reaching reforms he has implemented in the Nigeria Customs Service.

In a congratulatory message jointly signed by MARCON President, Ismail Aniemu, and Secretary, Olamide Osho, the association commended the Customs Comptroller-General for his visionary leadership, commitment to institutional reforms and dedication to advancing customs administration at both the national and international levels.

According to MARCON, Adeniyi’s re-election is not only a personal achievement but also a source of pride for Nigeria and the African continent.

The statement read in part: “Your re-election as Chairperson of the WCO Council is not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa. It clearly demonstrates the confidence that the international customs community has in your vision, competence and reform-driven leadership.”

The association noted that Adeniyi’s emergence and subsequent re-election have significantly raised the profile of the Nigeria Customs Service on the global stage, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as an important voice in shaping international customs policies, trade facilitation and cross-border cooperation.

MARCON stated that the development reflects the growing respect enjoyed by Nigeria within the global customs community and further strengthens the country’s reputation as a key player in international trade administration.

The association also highlighted the remarkable achievements recorded under Adeniyi’s leadership since assuming office as Comptroller-General of Customs. These include the successful deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, sustained growth in revenue generation, improved anti-smuggling operations, digital transformation initiatives and enhanced collaboration with stakeholders.

According to MARCON, these reforms have repositioned the Nigeria Customs Service as one of the leading customs administrations in Africa while promoting transparency, accountability, operational efficiency and ease of doing business.

The association observed that the reforms have also strengthened public confidence in the Service and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s efforts to modernise customs operations in line with global best practices.

MARCON expressed confidence that Adeniyi’s renewed mandate as Chairperson of the WCO Council would further deepen international cooperation among customs administrations, accelerate global customs modernisation and provide greater opportunities for Nigeria to contribute meaningfully to the formulation of international trade and customs policies.

While wishing the Comptroller-General a successful second term in office, the maritime journalists reaffirmed their support for initiatives aimed at building a transparent, technology-driven and globally competitive Nigeria Customs Service.

The association added that Adeniyi’s continued leadership at the WCO Council will not only benefit Nigeria but also strengthen Africa’s voice in discussions on global customs reforms, trade facilitation and international economic cooperation.