Maritime Journalists Congratulate Customs Boss on Historic WCO Appointment
Nifemi Coker
The Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, on his landmark election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO).
In a statement jointly signed by the group’s Chairman, Dele Aderibigbe, and Secretary, Moses Ebosele, the NNMJ described Adeniyi’s election as a historic milestone not just for Nigeria, but for Customs administrations across the globe.
Adeniyi was elected on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Brussels, making him the first Nigerian to lead the WCO since its establishment 73 years ago.
The organization, with 186 member nations, is the top global body responsible for shaping customs policies and practices worldwide.
The journalists’ body hailed Adeniyi as a visionary leader whose dedication to reform and innovation has transformed the Nigeria Customs Service.
The group noted that under his leadership, the Service has grown into one of the nation’s most efficient revenue-generating institutions, surpassed only by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC).
Quoting former U.S. President John Quincy Adams, the group praised Adeniyi’s impact: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
The NNMJ commended Adeniyi for bringing honour and recognition to Nigeria, stating that his appointment reflects the country’s growing influence in global governance circles.
“On behalf of all maritime journalists in Nigeria, the NNMJ congratulates CGC Adeniyi for bringing pride and honour to our nation,” the statement read.
The group further expressed confidence in Adeniyi’s capacity to steer the WCO towards greater effectiveness, urging him to preserve its legacy while embracing bold reforms that would advance global customs standards and cooperation.
Adeniyi’s appointment, they stressed, serves as both an inspiration and a challenge—to sustain the momentum of excellence and innovation that has defined his career thus far.
With his historic role at the helm of the WCO, CGC Adewale Adeniyi is not only making history for Nigeria but also setting a new standard for leadership in international customs administration
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