Tinubu Hails CGC Adeniyi’s Historic Election as Chair of World Customs Council
…Says Hoisting Nigerian Flag at WCO Headquarters a Landmark Honour for the Nation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended hearty congratulations to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his unanimous election as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council – a first for Nigeria in the organisation’s 73-year history.
The election, which took place on Saturday, 28th June 2025, at the WCO headquarters in Brussels, saw CGC Adeniyi clinch the prestigious position, becoming the first Nigerian to preside over the global body comprising 186 member countries.
The Council, as the WCO’s apex decision-making organ, is responsible for steering the affairs of customs administrations worldwide and setting policy direction in line with international best practices.
In a statement released by the State House and signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the development as a monumental recognition not only of Adeniyi’s exceptional leadership within the Nigeria Customs Service but also of Nigeria’s growing influence in global customs affairs.
“The hoisting of the Nigerian flag at the WCO headquarters in Brussels marks a significant milestone. It is the first time this has happened since the organisation’s founding in 1952,” the President noted. “It reflects the dynamism and reformative leadership of CGC Adeniyi, who has remarkably transformed the Nigerian Customs Service since his appointment two years ago.”
Since assuming office in 2023, CGC Adeniyi has championed sweeping reforms within the NCS – notably increasing revenue generation beyond budgetary benchmarks, enhancing stakeholder engagement, modernising operations, and implementing digital technologies to streamline customs processes.
President Tinubu praised these accomplishments, stating, “I congratulate the Customs boss for bringing pride and validation to our country and our economic reforms. I urge the new Chairperson of the WCO to live up to the expectations of the global customs community – and even surpass them.”
The President also extended appreciation to the WCO Secretary-General and other member states for their unanimous endorsement of Adeniyi’s candidature, pledging that his administration will continue to support the new Chairperson as he assumes the vital role.
CGC Adeniyi will officially assume leadership of the Council on 1st July 2025, taking over from South Africa’s Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service. In this capacity, he will oversee critical efforts to promote harmonisation, modernisation, and compliance among the world’s customs administrations.
The President’s commendation comes amid a string of international recognitions for Nigerian institutions and underscores the country’s deepening role in shaping global economic governance.
