Author: Ejide Onibiyo

  • MAAN raises concerns over customs succession gaps

    President of The Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN)

     

    MAAN raises concerns over customs succession gaps
    Lagos, June 24, 2026,  The Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN) has raised concerns over succession gaps in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
    The association warned that weak leadership transition planning could threaten institutional stability and service delivery.
    MAAN President, Chief Jean Anishere (SAN), spoke in Lagos on Wednesday while reacting to recent developments within the customs service.
    She commended President Bola Tinubu for extending the tenure of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi.
    However, Anishere said the extension exposed deeper challenges surrounding leadership transition and capacity building.
    She noted that the situation reflected gaps within the NCS Board’s succession planning framework.
    According to her, younger officers needed stronger preparation for strategic leadership positions.
    “The extension provides temporary stability, but it exposes failures in preparing future leaders,” she said.
    Anishere stressed that training, mentoring and empowerment remained essential for institutional continuity.
    She said sustainable leadership pipelines were necessary to preserve reforms and strengthen public institutions.
    The MAAN president said the decision highlighted questions about knowledge transfer and institutional planning.
    She added that the NCS Board must prioritise developing officers capable of assuming higher responsibilities.
    Anishere described succession planning as a major lesson for public service institutions nationwide.
    She said leadership should be measured beyond titles, positions and official recognition.
    “Impact, standards, shared knowledge and lasting legacy define true public service,” she said.
    The maritime arbitration expert urged agencies to preserve institutional memory through proper mentorship.
    She said her election as MAAN president would support reforms addressing leadership challenges.
    Anishere said the focus should extend beyond maritime arbitration to allied government agencies.
    “The voyage toward eminence is defined by the standards we uphold,” she stated, adding that leaders should focus on the legacy they leave behind.
    President Tinubu on June 19 approved a six-month extension of Adeniyi’s tenure.
    The extension allows Adeniyi to remain as Customs Comptroller General until February 2027. His statutory tenure was earlier expected to end on Aug. 1, 2026.
    The Presidency said the extension would help complete the National Single Window Project.
    The project aims to improve efficiency in Nigeria’s import and export processes. It also seeks to strengthen trade facilitation through digital integration and coordination.
    The Presidency said the extension would support key personnel decisions within Customs.
    These include promoting qualified officers to Comptroller positions and retiring eligible personnel.
    Officials said the measures would encourage an orderly succession process, adding that the move would sustain ongoing reforms within the service.

     

  • CCC decries politicisation of NCS succession, urges due process

    The Secretary, Customs Consultative Committee (CCC) Dr Eugene Nweke

     

    CCC decries politicisation of NCS succession, urges due process

     

     

     

    Lagos, June 24, 2026, The Customs Consultative Committee (CCC) has expressed concern over growing controversy on leadership succession in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), warning that politicisation threatened institutional stability and discipline.

     

    The committee stated its position on Wednesday in Lagos.

    The Secretary, Mr Eugene Nweke, said that discussions on the next Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) were increasingly driven by politics.

     

    While noting that Nigerians were entitled to opinions on appointments, the CCC said it was destabilising for public office holders to suggest that succession in a disciplined institution was subject to political influence.

     

    Nweke stressed that the NCS was not a political constituency but a statutory institution governed by law, procedures, hierarchy, and professional traditions developed over decades adding that leadership emergence should remained institutional, not political.

     

    He expressed concern over some public office holders speaking authoritatively on matters within the President’s constitutional powers and NCS governance structures. Such actions could create uncertainty, undermine discipline, and erode morale among officers.

     

    The CCC secretary said legislative oversight should not be mistaken for authority to influence, announce, or personalise appointments in agencies under supervision, oversight and administration were different functions, and blurring them breeds distrust.

     

    He said that committee condemned introducing regional, ethnic, and political narratives into succession matters that should be governed by merit, competence, integrity, and national interest adding that strategic institutions thrive only when appointments were seen as fair and transparent.

     

    He noted that the NCS has a serving Comptroller General whose tenure was extended by the President to consolidate reforms, including the National Single Window project and succession management adding that stakeholders should allowed leadership to function without distraction.

     

    He expressed the committee stand cautioning against premature succession campaigns or speculative declarations creating

     

    “Comptroller General-in-waiting” impression. Such narratives harm discipline, foster rivalries, weaken command structures, and create tension within the service, he said.

     

    Nweke highlighted international implications, noting that Nigeria chairs the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, the highest global customs decision-making body, so the country should exemplified integrity, professionalism, transparency, and good governance.

     

    He observed that the global customs community monitors members, especially WCO leaders, perceptions of political interference could diminish confidence in NCS governance and project a negative image of Nigeria’s public administration standards.

     

    Nweke said that the Nigeria’s WCO role offers opportunity to showcase best practices in succession management, institutional continuity, and administrative discipline.

     

    ” Avoidable controversies should not overshadow NCS progress in modernisation, trade facilitation, and international cooperation.

     

    “The CCC called on political actors, public office holders, and stakeholders to exercise restraint and allow due process in succession matters.

     

    “The Comptroller General’s office is too important to economic security and border management for speculation,” He said.

     

    Nweke urged statesmanship over partisanship, institutional loyalty over personal loyalty, and constitutional order over grandstanding adding that NCS integrity would be preserved not by loud voices, but by commitment to due process and rule of law.

     

    The CCC secretory said that the future of the NCS should be determined by law, competence, integrity, and national interest, not political influence or sectional considerations. The world is watching Nigeria’s transition

     

  • PTML unveils $50m port expansion plan, Minister reaffirms maritime hub vision

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola (left), and the Managing Director of Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML), Mr. Ascanio Russo, during a meeting on PTML’s fresh investment of an additional $50 million at the Tin Can Island Port Complex, Lagos, held in the Minister’s office in Abuja on Tuesday

    PTML unveils $50m port

    expansion plan, Minister reaffirms maritime hub vision

     

     

     

    Lagos, June 24, 2026, Port and Terminal Multiservices Ltd., (PTML) has said its proposed a $50 million investment to expand its terminal, Managing Director Ascanio Russo, said Tuesday in Abuja.

     

    Russo disclosed the planned investment during a visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, according to a statement issued Wednesday in Lagos.

     

    The Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr Bolaji Akinola, said in a statement made available to media on Wednesday.

     

     

    confirmed the development, noting that the investment targets infrastructure upgrade, efficiency boost, and trade facilitation.

     

    Russo said the investment would support Nigeria’s ambition of becoming the leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa through expanded capacity.

     

    He stated that PTML, a member of Grimaldi Group, would expand berthing capacity and acquire additional state-of-the-art port equipment at Tin Can Island.

     

    “The Grimaldi Group remains deeply committed to Nigeria and firmly believes in the country’s potential as the leading maritime and logistics gateway,” Russo said.

     

    “This proposed investment of $50 million is designed to position PTML for the future by expanding our berthing capacity and deploying modern equipment,” he added.

     

    He explained that expanded facilities would enable PTML to receive next-generation Container/Roll-on Roll-off (Con-Ro) vessels, including the largest Con-Ro ships operating globally.

     

    Russo noted that the maritime industry is evolving rapidly, with larger and more efficient vessels becoming the standard for international trade and logistics.

     

    He said through this expansion, PTML would be fully equipped to accommodate next-generation Con-Ro vessels, ensuring Nigeria remains competitive and attractive globally.

     

    The PTML boss described the project as a direct response to Federal Government’s call for increased private-sector participation in port infrastructure modernisation.

     

    He highlighted expected economic benefits, including facilitated trade, increased cargo throughput, employment opportunities during construction and operational phases, and higher government revenue generation.

     

    Responding, Oyetola welcomed the proposed investment, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in ongoing Federal Government reforms transforming the maritime sector.

     

    The minister reiterated government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for private investment, ensuring Nigerian ports become preferred hubs for shipping and logistics.

     

    Oyetola said the Federal Government was implementing measures to improve port efficiency, reduce bottlenecks, enhance infrastructure, and strengthen ease of doing business nationwide.

     

  • Customs FOU Zone ‘C’ Intercepts 3,310 Jerrycans of Smuggled Vegetable oil

     

    A picture of intercepted vegetable oil in Jerry cans

     

     

     

    Customs FOU Zone ‘C’ Intercepts 3,310 Jerrycans of Smuggled Vegetable oil

     

     

     

    Lagos, June 15, 2026, The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has announced a significant enforcement success following the interception of 3,310 Jerry can of smuggled foreign vegetable oil.

     

    The Comptroller of the Unit, Bishir Balogun, made the disclosure in statement made available to newsmen in Lagos on Monday.

     

     

    Balogun attributed the seizures to the result of strategic intelligence coordination and coordinated operational activity by officers of the Unit.

     

     

    “The seized items, are: “3,310 jerry cans of 25-litre “Super Delicious” vegetable oil; 10 jerry cans of 10-litre “Super Delicious” vegetable oil; 20 cartons of 5-litre sunflower vegetable oil and 20 cartons of 3 litre sunflower vegetable oil.

     

    “This seizure represents a major blow to economic saboteurs whose illegal importation of foreign vegetable oil undermines local industry, technology transfer, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings.

     

    “Let me emphasized that the operation demonstrates the Service’s firm commitment to enforcing the NCS Act 2022 (as amended) and the Federal Government’s fiscal and protective measures that prohibit the importation of foreign vegetable oil,” Balogun said.

     

     

     

    He urged those that were engaging in smuggling and related criminal networks to cease their activities.

    Balogun warned that the Nigeria Customs Service would continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies to protect public health, national security, and the domestic economy.

     

    He said that the confiscated jerry cans and cartons remained in custody as investigations continue and appropriate legal processes commence.

     

  • Award: Western Marine Customs Pushes Maximum Use of Sports Facilities for Community Growth

    From L-R, Zonal Coordinators, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Lagos Industrial District, Mr Dennis Unukefe, Mr Oluwole Egbaye, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi and Assistant controller of Customs AC Anugba , during courtesy visit by the union and award presentation held on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    Award: Western Marine Customs Pushes Maximum Use of Sports Facilities for Community Growth
    Lagos, June 17, 2026,  Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has called for better utilisation of community sports facilities in Apapa as part of efforts to promote public wellness, youth development and safer communities.
    Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, made the call on Wednesday in Lagos during a courtesy visit and award presentation by the Maintenance Unit of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Ibafon Branch.
    He urged residents to take advantage of such facilities, citing the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena.
    Ntadi said increased use of the facility by children, adults and business owners would encourage healthy living, nurture sporting talents and discourage youth involvement in crime.
    According to him, sports infrastructure plays a critical role in community development by providing productive engagement for young people and improving social cohesion.
    “The facility is open to members of the public. If properly utilised, it can help produce sporting champions and keep children away from the streets,” he said.
    He said the transformation of the Apapa/ Kirikiri/Mile 2 axis had improved security and created a more conducive environment for businesses and residents.
    Ntadi noted that efforts to rid the area of criminal elements had enabled people to move freely and carry out economic activities without fear.
    He attributed some of the interventions to the Customs Cares initiative of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, which seeks to strengthen relations between the service and host communities.
    The Customs Public Relations Officer, Western Marine Command, Mrs CC Nwosu, the Controller of the command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, Senior Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Hajia Cole Aisha, the NAN reporter Hajia Hekmot-Olaseni Alakija and the Customs Media Miss Ibe Wada felicitating with Comptroller Ntadi after receiving the award by the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria on Wednesday in Lagos
    According to him, the initiative has supported social projects across the country, including school renovations and educational infrastructure.
    Speaking on the impact of the interventions, the Zonal Coordinator of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Lagos Industrial District, Mr Oluwole Egbaye, said insecurity had previously hampered operations in the area.
    Egbaye, in company of Mr Dennis Unukefe, also a zonal coordinator, said workers, particularly those operating at night, were often exposed to attacks by hoodlums before recent security improvements.
    According to him, the improved environment has enhanced safety and made the area more suitable for commercial and recreational activities.
    He said that they honoured two outstanding officers along side with the controller, the Assistant Comptroller Charles  Oputa.for the  most accessible officer while  Superintendent of customs Morris Okauru received the Excellent Award,
    Superintendent of customs Morris Okauru received the Excellent Award presented by the MWUN Ibafon branch in Lagos on Wednesday

     

    Also, the Baale of Ebute-Ibafon, Chief Saheed Balogun, said improved security in the community had boosted business activities and enhanced residents’ quality of life.
    Baale of Ebute-Ibafon, Chief Saheed Balogun

     

    He commended security agencies and stakeholders for restoring order in the area and sustaining development initiatives.

     

  • Oba Oniru backs WISTA-Nigeria maritime conference, confirms attendance

    The WISTA Nig. President, Dr Odunayo Ani, presenting the association magazines to Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, during the courtesy visit to his palace on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    Oba Oniru backs WISTA-Nigeria maritime conference, confirms attendance
    His Royal Majesty, the Oniru of Iru community in Lagos State, Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, has pledged support for Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria.
    The traditional ruler expressed delight while receiving delegates from the WISTA-Nigeria.  The delegation, led by WISTA Nigeria President, Dr Odunayo Ani, visited the palace on Wednesday.
    Oba Lawal promised to attend the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference scheduled for Lagos in June 2026.
    He said his decision reflected Iruland’s historic connection with waterways and maritime activities.
    “My ancestors lived and thrived on water, and about 80 per cent of our traditional business remains connected to waterways,” he said.
    L-R Chairman Wista Nigeria Regional Conference, Dr Oma Ofodile, President Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, The WISTA Nig. President, Dr Odunayo Ani, presenting the association magazines to Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, during the courtesy visit to his palace on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    The traditional ruler said the Iru community would continue supporting maritime development and the blue economy.
    He described the conference as an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its maritime achievements.
    The Oba recalled the contributions of his forebears during the colonial era toward Lagos’ maritime growth.
    He identified Eyin-Igbeti as a historic location where waterborne shipment of goods began in earlier times.
    The traditional ruler praised the Lagos State Government for supporting initiatives connected to the maritime sector.
    “The duty of the Oniru is to ensure the ocean and lagoon remain peaceful spiritually.
    “Whatever happens on the waterfront, we receive our royalty. That is why we champion waterfront issues,” he said.
    Oba Lawal noted that Bar Beach was once a major centre for trade, commerce, transport and tourism.
    He said the waterfront remained central to Iru’s identity and economic activities.
    His royal majesty assured WISTA-Nigeria of his presence and support during the regional conference.
    Oba Lawal also commended the passion and vital role played by a  Hon. Violet Williams, in reviving Lagos’ maritime history and encouraging students to pursue careers in the sector.
    The Oba also commended the Chairman of the WISTA regional Conference Dr Oma Ofodile, for appreciating him noting that the presence of WISTA delegates was further proof that the ocean and lagoon front belong to Oniru.
    “I will facilitate participation from foreign and local business people and encourage more royal fathers to attend,” he said.
    Delegates of the WISTA-Nigeria and chiefs during the courtesy visit to Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan on Wednesday in Lagos
    Oba Lawal said his kingdom established the Oniru Business and Cultural Day in 2025.
    He added that the Iru Business Network was created to strengthen business opportunities within the community.
    The Oba disclosed that the palace had engaged hospitality operators and the Indian business community.
    He said the Indian community maintained strong relations with Nigerians and would be hosted soon.
    Oba Lawal pledged to involve WISTA Nigeria in future business forums within Iruland.
    He said the initiative would expose youths to maritime operations and global shipping opportunities.
    The traditional ruler urged WISTA executives to collaborate with his kingdom on Blue Economy development.
    He noted that youth participation was limited mainly by inadequate access to opportunities.
    Oba Lawal revealed that he sent a proposal to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, calling for the establishment of a Lagos Coastal Community Development Commission.
    “About nine local governments are bordered by water, yet communities do not feel the impact,” he said.
    Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, and The WISTA Nig. President, Dr Odunayo Ani Abisogun II, during the courtesy visit to his palace on Wednesday in Lagos
    He listed areas including Badagry, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, Apapa, Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, Lekki and Epe.
    He noted the presence of major facilities such as ports, refineries and free trade zones.
    “We have Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Apapa Port and Tin-Can Island Port.
    “Yet we do not feel the impact. We are doing much to suppress community agitation,” he said.
    Earlier, WISTA Nigeria President, Dr Odunayo Ani said the delegation visited to brief the traditional ruler on the upcoming conference.
    She said the event would hold from June 25 to 26, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites.
    Ani described WISTA as a global organisation empowering women in maritime, shipping and trade.
     She said the association operates across more than 60 countries worldwide.
    The conference theme is: ‘From Policy to Implementation: Women Advancing Africa’s Blue Economy.’
    Ani said the event would attract policymakers, investors, maritime leaders and professionals.
    She added that delegates would experience Lagos and Oniru Kingdom’s maritime heritage.
    The delegation sought the traditional ruler’s endorsement, goodwill message, blessings and attendance.
    Among the delegates were Secretary of WISTA Nigeria, Mrs Lilian Nneji; Assistant Treasurer, Hajia Aisha Cole; the Vice President Women in Shipping Africa (WIMAFRICA), Mrs Ogunniyi Temilade  Madam Blessing; consultants Mr Deji and Mr Sam, among others.

     

     

  • Nigeria targets illegal fishing with €59m EU ocean programme

    R-L, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola and the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, when the EU Ambassador visited the Minister in his office in Abuja
    Fishing

     

    Nigeria targets illegal fishing with €59m EU ocean programme
    Lagos, June 7, 2026, Nigeria will leverage the €59 million West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme (WASOP) to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and strengthen marine resource management.
    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this during a meeting with the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gautier Mignot, in Abuja.
    This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Lagos by the Minister’s Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola.
    Oyetola and Mignot reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on maritime security and sustainable ocean governance.
    The minister commended the European Union for its longstanding support for maritime stability in the Gulf of Guinea.
    He described the region as critical to global shipping and regional economic development.
    Oyetola said WASOP presents a timely opportunity to strengthen action against illegal fishing, improve ocean governance and promote sustainable resource exploitation.
    He noted that Nigeria was eager to engage fully with the programme to attract technical and financial support.
    According to him, such support would enhance enforcement capacity and advance the country’s blue economy objectives.
    The minister identified illegal fishing as a major threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
    He warned that IUU fishing continues to deplete fish stocks, undermine food security and weaken coastal economies.
    “Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing is a direct threat to national security, food sovereignty and the survival of our coastal communities.
    “We cannot afford to stand by and watch our marine ecosystems depleted and economic livelihoods eroded.
    “We are calling for an era of stronger international collaboration, backed by aggressive monitoring and uncompromising enforcement systems.
    “This is necessary to permanently dismantle these illicit operations and safeguard our waters,” Oyetola said.
    The minister also highlighted reforms under the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
    He said the policy prioritises innovation, private sector investment and sustainable development of ocean resources.
    Oyetola cited improvements in port operations, logistics and maritime security as key achievements in the sector.
    He added that Nigeria was expanding maritime infrastructure and improving its competitiveness in global trade.
    The minister stressed the need for broader cooperation beyond piracy control.
    He urged development partners to support Nigeria in tackling environmental crimes, human trafficking and illegal fishing through coordinated action.
    Oyetola also sought increased EU technical assistance in surveillance systems, fisheries monitoring and enforcement capacity.
    He said such support would strengthen Nigeria’s ability to curb IUU fishing across the Gulf of Guinea.
    Earlier, Mignot reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with Nigeria.
    He said the EU remained committed to supporting regional efforts aimed at safer and more sustainable oceans.
    The ambassador highlighted WASOP as a major EU-funded initiative promoting integrated ocean governance and sustainable fisheries management.
    He said the programme would also support the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems across West Africa.
    Mignot noted that WASOP would improve coordination among coastal states, strengthen enforcement mechanisms and promote an inclusive blue economy.
  • Green Ports Start with Less Gridlock, TTP Tells Dockworkers at SCAN Event

    The Managing Director, TTP, Jama Onwubuariri

     

    Green Ports Start with Less Gridlock, TTP Tells Dockworkers at SCAN Event

    Lagos, June 6, 2026, Trucks Transit Parks Limited, TTP, says cutting congestion around Nigeria’s seaports is vital for sustainable shipping. Efficient truck management protects the environment and improves dockworkers’ daily working conditions significantly.

    The company stated this during the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day celebration hosted by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria, SCAN, in Lagos, focusing on maritime sustainability challenges and solutions.
    Speaking on “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” TTP emphasized its Ètò electronic call-up system. The platform promotes order and sustainability along Apapa and Tin Can port corridors daily.
    The General Manager TTP, Miss Nancy Nnamdi,
    The Managing Director, Jama Onwubuariri who was represented by the General Manager  Miss Nancy Nnamdi, said the event theme aligns with TTP’s commitment to sustainable port operations through technology and process improvements.
    According to him, sustainability exceeds corporate messaging. TTP embeds it within systems and processes designed to boost efficiency across the entire port ecosystem for all stakeholders involved.
    He explained that long truck queues on port access roads waste fuel. This causes higher emissions, environmental pollution, and unnecessary costs for transporters and the surrounding communities.
    “Imagine a truck idling in traffic. Engine running, fuel burning, going nowhere. Multiply that by hundreds daily. The cost is time, money, and polluted air we breathe,” he said.
     Onwubuariri noted Ètò was built to tackle Apapa and Tin Can congestion. Better traffic management delivers environmental benefits alongside operational efficiency for trucks, port users, and dockworkers.
    “Our Ètò platform brings order to chaos. Order is green, it is sustainable. TTP has made port corridors more sustainable by reducing gridlock on surrounding roads,” Ọnwụbụarịrị stated.
    The General Manager TTP, Miss Nancy Nnamdi,
    Fewer idling trucks mean lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions. This also creates safer, cleaner working conditions for dockworkers who power Nigeria’s maritime trade daily.
    “When the system works, everyone breathes easier. Literally,” she added. Dockworkers are essential stakeholders in achieving a cleaner, more efficient maritime sector for Nigeria’s economic future.
    Onwubuariri reaffirmed TTP’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable port operations. The company prioritizes welfare and productivity improvements across the maritime value chain consistently.
     He also commended SCAN for creating a platform to discuss sustainability. The association celebrates dockworkers’ contributions to Nigeria’s maritime industry and encourages continuous stakeholder dialogue on green practices.
  • Ooni of Ife Backs Tinubu’s Commendation, Applauds CGC Adeniyi’s Leadership at Customs

    L-R, The Comptroller General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, the Oni Of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi and the Wife of the Comptroller General of customs Mrs Shakirah Adeniyi, also the President , Customs’s Wife Association (COWA) during Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Modakeke, Osun State

     

    Ooni of Ife Backs Tinubu’s Commendation, Applauds CGC Adeniyi’s Leadership at Customs

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi II, has cited President Bola Tinubu’s public commendation of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, as evidence of the confidence reposed in the Customs boss.
    Ogunwusi described Adeniyi’s leadership of the Service and impact on community development as a source of pride to the ancient Ife Kingdom and the Modakeke community.
    L-R, The Comptroller General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi and the Oni Of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi during Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Modakeke, Osun State
    The monarch stated this during the annual Eid-el-Kabir gathering hosted by the Comptroller-General at his residence in Modakeke, Osun State. The event attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, senior Customs officers, community stakeholders, family members, friends, and associates.
    Oba Ogunwusi said President Tinubu’s public expression of satisfaction with Adeniyi’s performance reflected confidence in his leadership and the results being achieved by the Service.
    “We are very proud of him and the work he is doing. When Mr President publicly expressed satisfaction with his performance, it was not a casual statement.
    L-R, The Comptroller General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi in cross discussion with the Oni Of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi and one of the Chief during Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Modakeke, Osun State

     

    ” It reflects trust in his capacity and the results he is delivering. What he is doing in the Customs Service and in the community shows that he is a unifier.” He said.
    Ogunwusi pledged the continuous support of the Ife Kingdom for the Comptroller-General, adding that Adeniyi brings people together, and that is what leadership is all about. He promised to continue standing by him and praying for him.
    The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Adeniyi, expressed appreciation to the Ooni of Ife, community leaders, family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers for their continued support.
    He described Eid-el-Kabir as a season that reminds humanity of the virtues of sacrifice, gratitude, obedience, and service to others.
    According to him, beyond the celebration, the gathering provides an opportunity to reconnect with people, strengthen relationships, and reflect on the collective responsibility of building stronger communities and a better nation.
    The CGC noted that the NCS had continued recording significant progress in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, technological innovation, and corporate social responsibility initiatives in line with the economic objectives of the Federal Government.
    L-R, The Comptroller General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, the Oni Of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi the Wife of the Comptroller General of customs Mrs Shakirah Adeniyi, and friends during Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Modakeke, Osun State
    He said the Service remained focused on supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu through reforms aimed at facilitating legitimate trade, enhancing national security, improving compliance, and creating opportunities for economic growth.
    CGC Adeniyi added that Customs has continued to invest in community-focused interventions across the country, including educational support programmes, healthcare initiatives, and other projects designed to improve the lives of Nigerians.
    He pledged that the Service would continue to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening its operations and delivering greater value to the nation, while assuring stakeholders of Customs’ commitment to professionalism, transparency, and service excellence.
    Adeniyi also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the country and assured Nigerians of the Service’s continued support for government policies geared towards economic prosperity and national development.