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Global Customs Governance: Nigeria’s Adeniyi Charts New Course
By prince Benson Davies
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has made a significant impact on the global customs stage, chairing the 93rd Session of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Policy Commission in Antigua, Guatemala. The meeting, which drew Heads of Customs Administrations and senior delegates from across the WCO’s six regions, marked a major milestone for Nigeria and the African continent.
During the session, CGC Adeniyi welcomed participants to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua Guatemala, paying tribute to customs officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. He urged delegates to engage constructively on issues shaping the global customs landscape, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and diversity among customs administrations.
The WCO Secretary General, Ian Saunders, and Guatemala’s Vice Minister of Public Finance, Honourable Patricia Joachin, also delivered remarks, highlighting the significance of the meeting. The gathering was further enriched by the cultural heritage of the host nation, with delegates hosted to a traditional dinner at the historic Capuchinas Ruins.
CGC Adeniyi’s election as WCO Council Chair in June 2025 was widely regarded as a milestone for Nigeria and the African continent, placing the country at the helm of an organisation with 187 member administrations. Reflecting on the significance of his mandate, CGC Adeniyi said the position comes with “a major responsibility for Nigeria and for Africa,” adding that the objective is to provide quality leadership that strengthens global trade, security, and inclusive customs governance.
In an exclusive WCO Global interview, CGC Adeniyi described his election as a validation of Nigeria’s ongoing customs reforms. He highlighted the country’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, developed with WCO support, as one of the most transformative reforms. The initiative has shortened clearance timelines, improved revenue outcomes, and deepened trust between Customs and compliant traders.
CGC Adeniyi also referenced the SAFE Framework of Standards, the Time Release Study (TRS), and the ongoing work on advance rulings as further evidence of Nigeria’s alignment with international best practices. He called for deeper cooperation among customs administrations, emphasizing diversity as one of the WCO’s greatest strengths.
“Our uniqueness is our strength,” he said. “We must allow that diversity to continue creating opportunities and progress for us.”
The 93rd Session of the WCO Policy Commission marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards strengthening its global customs profile. With CGC Adeniyi at the helm, Nigeria is poised to make a lasting impact on the global customs landscape.
