MARCON hails Adeniyi’s WCO re-election, says Nigeria now shapes global customs agenda
Maureen Aguta
The Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) has described the re-election of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation Council (WCO) as a major boost to Nigeria’s international profile and a strong endorsement of the sweeping reforms underway in the Nigeria Customs Service.
In a statement issued on Thursday and jointly signed by the President of MARCON, Ismail Aniemu, and its Secretary, Olamide Osho, the association said the renewed mandate reflects the confidence reposed in CGC Adeniyi by customs administrations worldwide and affirms his growing influence in global customs administration.
MARCON commended the Customs boss for what it described as his exemplary leadership, transformative reforms and unwavering commitment to advancing customs administration both within Nigeria and on the international stage.
According to Aniemu, CGC Adeniyi’s re-election is a well-earned recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions to the global customs community.
He noted that the achievement represents not only a personal milestone for the Customs chief but also a significant moment for Nigeria and the African continent.
“Your re-election as Chairperson of the WCO Council is not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent. It is a clear demonstration of the confidence the international customs community has in your vision, competence and reform-driven leadership,” the statement quoted Aniemu as saying.
The association further stated that Adeniyi’s emergence and subsequent re-election have significantly elevated the profile of the Nigeria Customs Service on the global stage, strengthening Nigeria’s voice in shaping international customs policies and trade facilitation initiatives.
MARCON also credited the Comptroller-General’s administration with implementing far-reaching reforms that have repositioned the Service among Africa’s leading customs institutions.
These include the deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, improved revenue generation, intensified anti-smuggling operations, accelerated digital transformation and enhanced stakeholder engagement.
According to the association, the reforms have boosted transparency, operational efficiency, public confidence and the ease of doing business.
It expressed confidence that CGC Adeniyi’s second term at the helm of the WCO Council would deepen international customs cooperation, advance global customs modernisation and create additional opportunities for Nigeria to contribute to the formulation of international trade policies.
MARCON wished the Customs Comptroller-General a successful tenure and reaffirmed its support for reforms aimed at building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive Nigeria Customs Service.