In the dynamic landscape of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the appointment of Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR on the 19th of June, 2023, heralded a new era of exceptional leadership. This momentous occasion occurred during an international conference of World Customs Professionals organized by the World Customs Organization in Brussels, setting the stage for a transformative journey.
Adeniyi’s elevation to the position of CGC on acting capacity is a testament to his outstanding and patriotic performance, resonating not only within the Service but also in elevating the image of Nigeria. His journey to confirmation on the 20th of October, 2023, was marked by a significant achievement – championing the decoration of three Deputy Comptroller Generals (DCGs) and Assistant Comptroller Generals (ACGs), whose appointments were approved by the President to serve as members of the NCS Management Team.
In the retrospective glance at 2023, these individuals, including DCGs: Muhammad Abba-Kura, Greg Itotoh, Al-Bashir Hamisu, Musa Baba Abdullahi, and ACGs: Adeogun Alajogun, Carole Niagwan, and Kikelomo Adeola, stand out as pillars of support to the CGC. Within a mere six months, they contributed significantly to the success of the Service, dispelling any doubts against Adeniyi’s administration.
As a seasoned Customs Officer, Adeniyi’s merit-based elevation to the rank of CGC did not come as a surprise to those familiar with his remarkable track record. Known for his multiple accomplishments since joining the Service, he embodies the reliability and leadership qualities essential for steering the NCS in its current trajectory.
Central to Adeniyi’s tenure are three pillars of fundamental agenda: consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. These principles serve as the driving force behind his initiatives to upgrade the Service, encompassing technological innovations, enhanced officer welfare, and collaborations with relevant stakeholders.
During his first International Conference to mark 100 days as Ag-CGC, Adeniyi emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with multiple agencies. The focus extended to border security, ports improvement, and the implementation of the new Customs Act of 2023, outlining a strategic roadmap for the Service’s future.
In a bid to facilitate trade and boost the economy, Adeniyi embarked on an adventurous working visit to key locations in 2023, including Lagos seaports, airports, land borders, Lagos Free Trade Zone Command, and Zone ‘A’ border areas. This journey, often dubbed a ‘super gallant journey of excellence,’ showcased his dedication to enhancing Customs’ efficiency through international collaborations, cutting-edge technologies like AI-driven solutions, and innovative projects shaping the future of customs practices in Nigeria.
Adeniyi’s ambitious dream for the NCS revolves around setting historical benchmarks in revenue generation and suppressing smuggling. His proactive approach includes engaging in strategic talks with partners such as the World Customs Organization, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Customs Administration. These discussions pave the way for potentially establishing a Customs Laboratory, offering comprehensive solutions to combat challenges like counterfeit goods, smuggling, and non-compliant imports.
The envisioned Customs Laboratory, with advanced analytical capabilities, promises precise identification, verification, and classification of goods. This transformative step aligns with the vision of President Tinubu’s administration, fostering seamless customs operations, trade competitiveness, and national economic growth.
Adeniyi’s diplomatic prowess extends globally, with successful engagements with sister organizations from neighboring countries. Hosting the Director-General of Benin Republic Customs in a bilateral engagement exemplifies his commitment to enhancing trans-border security and regulating trade between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
Domestically, Adeniyi reinvigorated collaborations with the Federal Ministry of Transport to decongest ports and engaged border communities. His efforts also extended to partnerships with state governments, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to harmonizing trade processes and fostering positive relationships.
In a strategic move to review anti-smuggling operations, the CGC dissolved the Strikeforce Team on the 17th of July, 2023, signaling a shift towards strengthening the Federal Operations Unit Arm of the Service nationwide. His commitment to societal impact is further highlighted by initiatives supporting Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) and plans to establish Customs primary and secondary schools nationwide.
The impending launch of Customs Service Zone ‘B’ Headquarters in Kaduna reflects Adeniyi’s unwavering commitment to improving welfare and efficiency. As the NCS enters a new era under his stewardship, the birth of NICIS II and a historic get-together party for past officers stand as testament to a visionary leader shaping the service’s future.
In his last mega assignment of 2023, the CGC’s Conference in Lagos hinted at strategic plans, promising more bounties from the NCS in 2024. As the Service enters a brand-new era under the seasoned Customs Officer Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the stage is set for an innovative and transformative journey, underlining his bravery and extraordinary performance in 2023.
Certainly, feel free to use the following paragraph as a conclusion to your article highlighting CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s achievements in 2023:
In closing, the strides made by CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi in 2023 are nothing short of remarkable. In the span of just six months, he has orchestrated a symphony of accomplishments, painting a canvas of success in the blink of an eye.
His unwavering commitment to transforming Customs’ operations in Nigeria has not only earned him national acclaim but has also illuminated the Service on the global stage. As we reflect on these achievements, there’s a palpable sense of pride for Mr. Adeniyi’s extraordinary leadership.
The future of NCS and Nigeria’s economy shines as brilliantly as Sirius, the celestial beacon that outshines the cosmic stage. In the vast expanse of the Observable Universe, much like Sirius dominates the night sky, the trajectory set by CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi promises a radiant journey towards prosperity and success.
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 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.
