By Kennedy Elaigwu Awodi
In under two years, the Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has dramatically reshaped the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Moving beyond a history of inefficiency and opacity, Adeniyi has diligently steered the NCS towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, championing transparency, technological integration, and national economic security.
Adeniyi’s proactive stance on revenue generation has been pivotal. Despite a challenging economic climate, the NCS has seen significant improvements in collection, not just by hitting targets, but by streamlining processes, curbing leakages, and instilling accountability. This success is largely attributed to the embrace of advanced data analytics and automation, which enhance efficiency and mitigate corruption risks.
Crucially, Adeniyi has prioritized border security as a cornerstone of national stability. His unwavering focus on strengthening controls, combating smuggling, and tackling illicit trade is indispensable in a nation grappling with security challenges. His aggressive posture against the smuggling of arms and contraband demonstrates a clear understanding of this imperative, further bolstered by enhanced collaboration with other security agencies for a unified approach to border management.
Furthermore, Adeniyi has invested heavily in the professional development of NCS personnel. Recognizing that a well-trained and motivated workforce is essential, he has implemented comprehensive training programs covering modern customs procedures, ethical conduct, and technological proficiency. This commitment to human capital addresses long-standing criticisms and is vital for building a sustainable and efficient customs service.
Transparency and stakeholder engagement have also defined Adeniyi’s leadership. By fostering open communication channels with importers, exporters, and other stakeholders, he has built trust, promoted collaboration, demystified customs procedures, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles. His more open engagement with the media and the public further underscores this commitment.
Adeniyi’s alignment of the NCS with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda demonstrates a clear understanding of the agency’s role in national development. He emphasizes facilitating legitimate trade, promoting economic diversification, and contributing to a conducive business environment, signaling a positive shift in the agency’s trajectory.
While challenges persist, and the journey toward a fully reformed NCS is ongoing, Adeniyi’s tenure has established a solid foundation. His focus on technology, transparency, and personnel development, coupled with an unwavering commitment to national security and revenue generation, positions the NCS for a more impactful role in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The progress under his leadership offers hope that the NCS can indeed become a model of efficiency and integrity.
Adeniyi’s self-discipline and selfless service to the nation are evident in his ability to exceed revenue projections, enhance customs services, significantly reduce smuggling, and strengthen relationships between customs, customers, and agents.
Kennedy Elaigwu Awodi, USA.
awodiken@outlook.com
