ZAINAB JUNAID
The Zonal Coordinator, Zone A, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, ACG Charles Orbih has led all Zone A Controllers to the Iconic Maritime Personality of the Year 2024 award night to honour the Comptroller General of Customs CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for Outstanding Performance.
Speaking at the event held at Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Thursday, 13 February 2025, ACG Orbih commended CGC Adeniyi for his remarkable leadership that has transformed the Nigeria Customs Service and left an indelible mark on the maritime sector.
The Zonal Coordinator expressed gratitude to the Customs Boss for elevating the Service to unparalleled heights of efficiency and professionalism.
He said the conferment of the award reflects the remarkable transformation that has occurred within the Service under his astute leadership.
To him, “The modernisation of customs procedures, strengthening of risk management systems, and optimisation of revenue collection processes have yielded unprecedented results.
“In the past year alone, we achieved record-breaking revenue figures, contributing significantly to the federal government’s fiscal objectives.
“Under the CGC’s leadership, the Service has fostered stronger partnerships with other government agencies, international organisations, and the private sector.
“These strategic alliances have improved intelligence sharing, leading to more effective joint operations in combating smuggling and other forms of customs offences,” ACG Orbih noted.
Still speaking, Orbih said the harmonious relationship has facilitated trade, reduced clearance times, and enhanced compliance levels among stakeholders.
He stressed that the deployment of cutting-edge technology has revolutionised the Service’s operation, advanced scanning systems and digital solutions have significantly improved cargo examination processes and risk management capabilities.
“These innovations have reduced cargo dwell time and improved the ease of doing business at Nigerian ports,” he stated.
ACG Orbih also declared that the CGC’s leadership excellence has inspired a generation of customs officers who now approach their duties with renewed vigour and commitment.
“The emphasis on continuous training and capacity building has equipped our officers with the knowledge and skills needed to meet contemporary customs challenges.
“The result is a more competent and confident workforce that consistently delivers on its mandate.
“The international recognition garnered by the Service under his leadership speaks volumes.
“From the World Customs Organisation to regional bodies, your innovative approaches to customs administration have become reference points for best practices. Your diplomatic acumen has strengthened our international partnerships and positioned Nigeria as a key player in global trade facilitation.
“As Zone ‘A’ Coordinator, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the CGC’s exceptional leadership style.
“Your consultative approach, decisive decision-making, and result-driven mindset have been instrumental in cultivating a culture of transparency, accountability, and meritocracy,” he noted.
“Your open-door policy has fostered an environment of trust and collaboration, motivating officers to strive for excellence and achieve outstanding results.”
He also commended the maritime journalists for their unwavering commitment to excellence, saying the award ceremony exemplifies the finest traditions of maritime journalism in Nigeria.
“Your shrewd observations and promotion of best practices continue to elevate standards across our maritime sector.
He further pledged continued loyalty and commitment to implementing the CGC’s vision for a modern, efficient, and world-class customs administration.
“Your exemplary leadership continues to bring out the best in us, and we are proud to serve under your authority,” he maintained.
