Zone A Celebrates CGC’s Historic Appointment as WCO Council Chairperson


It is a significant turn of event for Nigeria and the African continent, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI MFR dsm fnipr FNIIA psc(+),  has been unanimously elected as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council  a landmark achievement that signals global recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership in international trade and customs administration.

In a statement issued by Charles Orbih, the Coordinator of Zone 'A' of the Nigeria Customs Service, officers and men of the Zone extended their heartfelt congratulations to the CGC, celebrating what they described as a “historic milestone” in both his illustrious career and Nigeria’s journey on the global stage.

“This remarkable achievement marks not only a personal triumph but a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa at large,” Orbih stated.

 “Your election as WCO Council Chairperson represents a global endorsement of your visionary leadership and the transformative reforms you’ve championed within the Nigeria Customs Service.”

Over the past two years, the CGC has led an ambitious modernization agenda within the Service  one that has improved efficiency, enhanced transparency, and positioned Nigeria as a progressive force in customs administration. Zone A, known for its strategic role in revenue generation and trade facilitation, expressed immense pride in being part of this legacy.

“We are proud to serve under your leadership and witness Nigeria’s elevation to this prestigious role,” Orbih added. “Your appointment brings honour not just to our nation, but also signals to the world that Africa is ready to lead in shaping the future of global customs.”

Recognizing the weight of this responsibility, Zone A pledged its full support and continued commitment to excellence. “We understand that this role comes with immense responsibility. As always, Zone A stands ready to support you with dedication, loyalty, and professionalism,” the statement read.

The CGC's appointment is particularly significant, as he becomes the first Nigerian to chair the WCO Council a testament to his integrity, strategic foresight, and relentless drive to reform and elevate Nigeria’s customs landscape.

As the global customs community looks ahead, expectations are high. But there is strong confidence that under the CGC’s leadership, the WCO will continue to evolve into a more dynamic and responsive institution, capable of tackling the complexities of modern global trade.

“Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations,” Orbih concluded. “We wish you great success as you take on this important global role. May your tenure be marked by transformative achievements and enduring impact on the international customs landscape.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Guardians of the Waterways: Zonal Coordinator Applauds Western Marine Command’s Fight Against Smuggling

Image
 The Zonal Coordinator of Nigeria Customs Service Zone A, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Charles Orbih, recently paid a working visit to the Western Marine Command, commending the officers for their remarkable performance in anti-smuggling operations and maritime border security. The visit, filled with praise and reflection, underscored the critical role of the Command in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests, especially as the nation ramps up efforts to curb illegal trade and protect its maritime borders. “Your work here is not just important, it is critical to our national survival,” ACG Orbih declared, addressing officers who have made notable seizures of contraband items worth over ₦352 million in Duty Paid Value in recent weeks. These efforts, he emphasized, are about more than statistics, they represent tangible acts of service in defense of Nigeria’s economy and public well-being. “The seizures you made go beyond mere numbers,” Orbih stated. “They tell t...
Read more

Nigeria Customs Service Cracks Down on Smuggling: ₦1.28 Billion Worth of Contraband Seized in Two Weeks

Image
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) In a bold and highly successful offensive fight against smuggling has announced the seizure of contraband goods valued at ₦1.28 billion within just two weeks. The operation, led by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, reflects the agency’s intensified drive to protect the Nigerian economy and promote trade. Between May 19 and May 31, 2025, the FOU Zone A conducted 46 targeted interceptions across Lagos and border states, uncovering a wide array of illegally imported goods. Some of the most significant recoveries include Cannabis sativa concealed in a truck compartments Towels 7 Mitsubishi Canters, 5 Toyota Hiace buses, 3 Mini Shuttle buses (all dismantled for concealment), and 11 used vehicles (commonly known as Tokunbo 1,665kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp) hidden in concealed truck compartments 2,051 bags of foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to four trailer-loads) 4,000 litres o...
Read more

NEARLY TWO DECADES OF CONCESSION, APMT REMAINS UNDER FIRE FOR POOR SERVICE DELIVERY

Image
 As Nigeria nears the 20th anniversary of its port concession policy, widespread dissatisfaction is mounting among stakeholders in the maritime sector, with particular criticism aimed at APM Terminals (APMT), a key player in port operations. In 2006, under the administration of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria’s seaports were concessioned in a bid to enhance efficiency, attract private investment, and modernize the sector.  However, almost two decades after, the promises of improved service delivery and infrastructural upgrades remain largely unmet especially at APMT, one of the largest terminal operators in the country.  sticker at a Terminal in Tin Can Inland Port Industry operators and freight forwarders are now calling not just for a review but for an outright cancellation of some of these concession agreements, citing persistent inefficiencies, poor customer service, and infrastructural decay. In an exclusive interview, Mr. Chukwuemek...
Read more