The historic election of Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council—established on January 26, 1953—has been widely celebrated as a validation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foresight in appointing him to lead the nation’s customs service
Adeniyi was unanimously elected to the WCO’s highest governing office during the concluding session of the 145th/146th WCO Council Meetings held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the WCO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. He takes over from Edward Kieswetter of South Africa and becomes the first Nigerian to hold the position since the WCO’s founding.
Presidential Vision Rewarded
Coming exactly two years after his appointment as CGC by President Tinubu in June 2023, Adeniyi’s election is being described as a moment of international pride for Nigerians and a strong affirmation of the President’s commitment to merit, reform, and global relevance.
“This milestone is not only historic but also affirms the strategic foresight of President Tinubu in choosing a capable and visionary leader to head the Nigeria Customs Service,” said a senior government official. “Adeniyi’s rise to global customs leadership reflec ints Nigeria’s growing stature on the world stage.”
Adeniyi: A Humbling Honour for Africa
In his acceptance speech, CGC Adeniyi expressed deep gratitude to the WCO Council for the confidence reposed in him and to the Nigerian government for the platform that has enabled his achievements.
“This honour is both humbling and historic,” he said. “It is a testament to the transformative agenda we have pursued at Nigeria Customs and the growing recognition of Africa’s role in shaping global trade. I thank President Tinubu for the trust and responsibility bestowed on me two years ago—it has now yielded international recognition for our country.”
He pledged to promote innovation, inclusivity, and strategic cooperation among the WCO’s 185 member administrations, and to uphold the organization’s core values during his tenure.
Strategic Role at a Critical Time
As Chairperson of the WCO Council, Adeniyi will lead the WCO Policy Commission and steer high-level global customs discussions around trade facilitation, security, digital transformation, and revenue optimization. He will collaborate with WCO Secretary-General Ian Saunders to implement the 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, ensuring that developing nations are better integrated into the global customs framework.
“We must balance facilitation with enforcement and build bridges between sovereignty and cooperation,” Adeniyi said. “The WCO must continue to adapt, innovate, and deliver solutions that reflect today’s realities.”
Symbolic Hand-Over: Nigeria Takes the Lead
In a powerful symbolic gesture following his election, the South African flag was lowered and the Nigerian flag hoisted at the WCO headquarters—a moment met with thunderous applause from delegates. The event underscored Nigeria’s ascension to a central role in shaping global customs governance.
Adeniyi’s leadership is expected to energize African representation in customs reform, especially in supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), combating illicit trade, and boosting technology-driven border management.
National and Continental Implications
The WCO Council serves as the supreme decision-making body of the organization. It oversees the operations of all customs administrations under its umbrella and ensures the implementation of uniform global standards.
Under Adeniyi’s chairmanship, Nigeria is set to lead the charge for policy reform, customs modernization, and capacity development across the Global South.
“This is a defining moment for Nigeria,” said a trade expert. “The international community is recognizing our ability to lead and to contribute meaningfully to global trade governance. President Tinubu’s decision to elevate Adeniyi is now a matter of national pride.”
Looking Ahead
In his closing remarks, CGC Adeniyi acknowledged the guidance of his predecessor, Edward Kieswetter, and expressed optimism about the future of the WCO. He pledged to foster dialogue and deeper cooperation among customs administrations while representing the WCO at high-level international forums and with external partners.
Adeniyi’s election has been described as both a personal triumph and a significant diplomatic victory for Nigeria. It reinforces the country’s position as a serious player in the international trade and customs landscape.
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