President Bola Tinubu has commended the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing his tenure as one marked by impactful reforms and sustained institutional transformation.
In a statement issued on Sunday, January 18, 2026, and signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President congratulated the Customs boss on the occasion of his birthday, noting that it reflects decades of dedicated service to the nation and reform-driven leadership that has repositioned the Service.
President Tinubu acknowledged that under CGC Adeniyi’s leadership, the Nigeria Customs Service has continued its transition into a globally competitive and relevant Customs administration. He noted that this progress was further underscored by Adeniyi’s election as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council in June 2025.
“The President notes the remarkable reforms that have repositioned the Nigeria Customs Service and elevated Nigeria’s standing within the global Customs community,” the statement said.
The President also commended the Comptroller-General for projecting Nigeria and Africa on the global stage through what he described as inclusive, practical and charismatic leadership at the WCO.
He highlighted efforts aimed at mobilising Customs administrations and key stakeholders towards the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) through the Customs Partnership of African Cooperation in Trade (C-PACT) platform.
President Tinubu further stated that the internal reforms introduced by CGC Adeniyi, particularly in automation, digitisation, capacity building and high-level international engagement, have resulted in measurable improvements in trade facilitation, revenue generation and border security.
According to the President, “the ongoing transformation within the Service reflects purposeful leadership and a deliberate drive to position Nigeria Customs as a model institution in Africa and beyond.”
He added that Adeniyi’s leadership has also enhanced community relations, ensured consistent surpassing of revenue targets, strengthened trade partnerships with countries and multilateral institutions, and improved security across Nigeria’s borders, noting that these achievements underscore the value of reform-oriented leadership in strengthening national economic resilience.
The President prayed that the Almighty God grant the Comptroller-General continued strength, good health and wisdom to further serve the nation as he marks another year.