*Nigerian Leader Praises Customs Chief's Historic Election to World Customs Organization*

By Lod Onyeji

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on his unanimous election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council. Adeniyi's appointment marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, as he becomes the first Nigerian to lead the 73-year-old global customs body, comprising 186 member countries.

*A Proud Moment for Nigeria*

The President lauded Adeniyi's achievement, stating that the election brings pride and validation to Nigeria's economic reforms. 

Tinubu praised Adeniyi's leadership, highlighting his accomplishments as Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, including:

- *Increased Revenue Collections*: consistently surpassing budgetary targets

- *Improved Stakeholder Relations*: fostering stronger ties with various stakeholders

- *Modernization and Digitalization*: streamlining operations and processes for greater efficiency

*A New Era of Global Leadership*

Adeniyi's tenure as WCO Chairperson is set to begin on July 1, 2025, where he will play a pivotal role in shaping global customs policies and promoting best practices among member states. The WCO Council, the organization's supreme governing body, guides the operations of customs administrations worldwide.

*Government Support*

President Tinubu assured Adeniyi of his government's full support during his tenure, thanking the WCO Secretary-General and leaders for unanimously electing the Nigerian Customs boss. This development underscores Nigeria's growing influence in international trade and customs affairs.

The historic election has raised the Nigerian flag at the WCO headquarters in Brussels for the first time since its founding in 1952, symbolizing Nigeria's emergence on the global customs stage.