ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NMJ) have unanimously endorsed the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the prestigious “Iconic Maritime Personality of the Year 2024” award.
This is in recognition of his transformative leadership and outstanding achievements in revenue collection, anti-smuggling operations, trade facilitation, and national security.
Under CG Adeniyi’s leadership, the Nigeria Customs Service has witnessed unprecedented growth and transformation. His strategic vision, coupled with his unwavering commitment to excellence, has repositioned the NCS as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth. The Service has consistently exceeded its revenue targets, while also making significant seizures of contraband goods.
The award, according to a letter jointly signed by Comrade Innocent Orok, Secretary, and Comrade Dele Aderibigbe, Chairman, Award Planning Committee for NMJ on Friday, 10 October 2025, will be presented on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Lagos Airport Hotel, Awolowo, Ikeja, Lagos State, by 6pm Prompt.
The letter highlighted Adeniyi’s remarkable impact on the Service and the Nation at large, emphasizing how his leadership has enhanced the reputation of the NCS and earned him the respect and admiration of Stakeholders in the maritime industry.
It is a well-deserved recognition of Adeniyi’s tireless efforts to rebrand and reposition the Service.
The event promised to be a milestone in the annals of the Nigeria Customs Service, as it celebrates the exceptional leadership and achievements of its Comptroller-General, and is first of its kind in the industry.
“The award ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from various sectors, including government officials, Maritime Stakeholders, and Customs Personnel.
“It is coming at no better time than during the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is looking for focused and dedicated leaders to take the Nigerian economy out of the woods.
“It will be a celebration of Adeniyi’s achievements and a testament to his commitment to excellence in public service. As the Nigeria Customs Service continues to soar to new heights under his leadership, the maritime community looks forward to witnessing even greater achievements in the years to come,” the letter partly read.
