WCO Renews Customs CG Adeniyi’s Tenure as Council Chair

By Adedapo Adesanya

The World Customs Organisation (WCO) has extended the tenure of Nigeria’s Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, as Chairperson of its Council for another year.

The decision was taken at the 147th and 148th Council Sessions in Brussels, Belgium, citing his leadership and contributions to global customs administration.

Comptroller Adeniyi returned to Abuja on June 29 to a reception by officers and management of the Nigeria Customs Service at its Maitama headquarters.

The management team also congratulated him on the six-month extension of his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking on his return, the Comptroller-General said he had expected to hand over in Brussels, but was instead given a renewed mandate, which he dedicated to the Service.

The extension at both international and national levels is expected to support ongoing reforms, trade facilitation, and partnerships within the Nigeria Customs Service.

The six-month domestic extension is expected to provide continuity for ongoing reforms within the Customs Service while paving the way for a smooth leadership transition.

During the transition period, the Presidency said Mr Adeniyi, working with the Nigeria Customs Service Board, will ensure the promotion of eligible officers to the rank of Comptroller of Customs and the compulsory retirement of officers who have attained 60 years of age or have served 35 years.

Mr Adeniyi joined the Nigeria Customs Service after graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in the late 1980s and rose steadily through the ranks of the service.

Mr Adeniyi’s first tenure extension was due to expire on August 1, 2026, but President Tinubu approved the additional six months to enable him to complete key reforms within the Customs Service.

The presidency, via a statement, said the extension was granted “to enable him to consolidate the implementation of the National Single Window and ensure an orderly succession in the service.”