Tinubu Praises Adeniyi’s Reform Agenda as Customs Boss Marks Birthday
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for what he described as far-reaching reforms that have strengthened the institution and enhanced Nigeria’s profile within the global Customs community.
In a statement issued on Sunday, 18 January 2026, to commemorate the birthday of the Comptroller-General, and signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President said Adeniyi’s tenure has been defined by purposeful leadership, innovation and sustained institutional transformation.
President Tinubu noted that the birthday milestone reflects not only personal longevity in public service but also decades of commitment to national development, particularly within the Nigeria Customs Service. He said the reforms implemented under Adeniyi’s leadership have repositioned the Service as a modern, efficient and globally competitive Customs administration.
The President drew attention to the election of Adeniyi as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council in June 2025, describing it as a significant international endorsement of Nigeria’s reform efforts in the Customs sector.
According to him, the development has elevated Nigeria’s standing and influence within the global trade and Customs ecosystem. “The President recognises the remarkable reforms that have repositioned the Nigeria Customs Service and enhanced Nigeria’s reputation within the global Customs community,” the statement said.
President Tinubu further commended the Customs boss for his leadership role at the WCO, where he has championed inclusive and pragmatic approaches to Customs administration.
He highlighted Adeniyi’s efforts in galvanising African Customs administrations and key stakeholders towards the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), particularly through the Customs Partnership of African Cooperation in Trade (C-PACT) initiative.
According to the President, the internal reforms introduced by the Comptroller-General, especially in automation, digitisation, capacity development and international engagement, have yielded tangible results. These include improvements in trade facilitation processes, sustained growth in revenue generation and enhanced security along Nigeria’s borders.
“The ongoing transformation within the Service reflects deliberate leadership and a clear vision to position Nigeria Customs as a reference point for excellence in Africa and beyond,” President Tinubu said.
He also observed that Adeniyi’s tenure has led to improved relations with host communities, stronger collaboration with trade partners and multilateral institutions, and consistent surpassing of revenue targets, all of which have contributed to national economic resilience.
As the Comptroller-General marks another year, the President prayed for continued strength, good health and wisdom for him to further advance the reforms and serve the country with distinction, the statement concluded.
