As a writer, there are certain individuals and topics that I naturally feel pleased to pick my pen and write a few words about them. Most times, I do this at my own preference to ‘gently’ remind those following my columns of what one of the renowned American Social Activists, Dorothy Day, said “there are so many good people in the world. It’s worth fighting to save.” Literally, everything in this life can be termed as ‘fight’ even though we often take the word for negativity.
Good things are sunshine, even if they don’t appear now, they will surely be seen by the living later. However, it is always good to reveal them to people – because they might influence them to do the same. This time, I developed interest to write about the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, whose prowess and impeccable track record within the Service paved the path to his appointment as the CGC of NCS. His unwavering patriotism, dedication, and integrity have been the cornerstones of his leadership.
Oga Wale, as some of his bosom buddies affectionately call him, has proven to be a great man of greater qualities – owing to his outstanding achievements, notably as an “excellent record breaker” for generating substantial revenue at the Murtala Muhammad Airport. I remember that his “first things first” move when he stepped into Nigeria from Brussels and assumed office as Ag. CGC was announcing his determination to implement three key policies: Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovative Solutions. And, it appears that the good God is with him because he is making giant strides in all the three policies.
As one of the few Nigerians closely monitoring the appointment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, I was reassured when Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi assumed the position, convinced that the presidency made the right choice. And in my view, CGC Wale’s appointment transcends politics; it reflects his mastery of Customs operations, extensive experience in all ramifications, and unmatched competence…which the world is witnessing today.
I will try to avoid discussing his past accolades in public relations or personal traits, despite the fact that no one can actually speak about him without mentioning his prowess in PR and benevolence. This piece aims neither to praise him nor attract favor because I have a strong belief that he’s the right man for the job. Thus, it’s a testament to individuals of exemplary standards and principles, with CGC Adeniyi embodying such traits.
Upon assuming office, CGC Adeniyi wasted no time in setting a standard legacy for the Nigeria Customs Service. His emphasis on Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovative Solutions underscores his commitment to transformative policies. His golden legacies will continue to live on – hopefully till the return of Jesus.
His strategic alignment of NCS activities with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Policy Advisory Document and the establishment of a Revenue Review Performance Recovery Team within his first 100 days exemplify his proactive leadership. What do you expect from a seasoned Customs Officer of great standards and capacity?
BA Adeniyi’s restructuring of enforcement teams, introduction of the Advanced Ruling system, and championing of Authorized Economic Operators showcase his commitment to global best practices and efficiency to move the Service to the capstone of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Untiring as he is, Oga Wale never seems to take a break from his plans to engage with international bodies, such as the WCO and Japan Customs to foster collaboration and innovation in Customs operations.
According to what I learnt, BA Adeniyi is such a leader that believes in carrying his colleagues along – and when it comes to appointing immediate colleagues – or members of the management team as they call them, he doesn’t take that lightly – that’s why when he emerged as the Ag. CGC, he promptly reconstituted a new management team, all appointed strictly based on merit, while also upholding the principle of equitable geopolitical representation.
Moreover, his initiatives, including a corporate social responsibility strategy and Work-Life Balance program, highlight his focus on staff welfare and societal impact – which also speaks volume on his robust efforts to enhance revenue generation, seizure interceptions, and partnerships with sister security agencies reflect his commitment to service excellence and public safety.
As he continues to spearhead transformative initiatives, including the launch of Time Release Studies and the establishment of the Nigeria Customs University, CGC Adeniyi’s visionary leadership promises a brighter future for the Nigeria Customs Service.
This article was written by Muhammad Bashir in Abuja, Nigeria, while the picture of the Comptroller-General of Customs was taken by Muhammadeesha, a professional photographer based in Abuja.
Muhammad Bashir, a distinguished professional in media practice and analysis, brings you this insightful article on CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s transformative leadership and achievements in the Nigeria Customs Service. As a seasoned media practitioner, Bashir’s expertise enriches the narrative, capturing the essence of Adeniyi’s dynamic initiatives.
For further inquiries or discussions, Muhammad Bashir can be reached via email at macbashir89@gmail.com. His wealth of knowledge and experience in media analysis makes him a valuable resource in understanding and interpreting key developments within the Nigerian landscape.
