The Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) has described the recent appointment of Comptroller–General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, as chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, as a “monumental milestone” for Nigeria.

Coordinator of CECOE, Dr. David Owah noted that this historic development not only boosts national pride but significantly uplifts Nigeria’s standing on the global stage.

Addressing a press briefing yesterday, he stated that Adeniyi’s emergence as WCO Council Chairperson—an unprecedented achievement since the Council’s establishment in 1953—reflected Nigeria’s increasing credibility in shaping global customs administration.

“This is not just a personal victory; it is a profound national triumph,” he declared, noting that the appointment confirms the country’s competence and leadership capacity in international trade governance.

He linked Adeniyi’s elevation directly to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating it was a testament to the President’s commitment to merit-based leadership and institutional reforms.

“This is a solid endorsement of President Tinubu’s governance philosophy that insists on measurable results and ethical leadership,” he said.

According to Owah, CG Adeniyi’s tenure at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has already seen far-reaching reforms.

He listed major accomplishments including record-breaking revenue generation, enhanced anti-smuggling efforts, the adoption of cutting-edge digital technologies, and stronger international collaborations.

“These reforms have improved business efficiency and boosted national revenue,” he noted.

He stressed that continuity in leadership was essential to sustain and institutionalise these gains.

He argued that CG Adeniyi’s current global role offered Nigeria an opportunity to shape international customs policies, and that maintaining his leadership at home is of strategic national importance.