CGC Adeniyi’s Performance and the Group’s Call for Tenure Extension — A Personal Perspective

By Muhammad Bashir

Between June and August 2024, I noticed a strong circulation of two fascinating articles that spoke extensively about CGC Adeniyi’s patriotic performance in leading the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). I found myself contemplating the underlying motives behind the creation of such compelling pieces, and it became clear that the CGC’s performance had not gone unnoticed by the public. It is evident that, in today’s world, no achievement remains hidden under the sun for long.

The publications came from One Voice Development Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting good governance, public accountability, and political development. The organisation has established itself as a reputable voice in the advocacy for leadership that prioritises the interests of the nation and its citizens.

Their recent appeal to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to extend the tenure of CGC Adeniyi as Comptroller-General of Customs is rooted in a recognition of his contributions to the Service and his alignment with national developmental goals.

Within a year of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s tenure, the Nigeria Customs Service has undergone transformative changes that have positioned it as a leading agency in trade facilitation and revenue generation. Under his stewardship, the Service reported an unprecedented 74% increase in revenue collection, totalling N4.49 trillion between June 2023 and May 2024, compared to N2.58 trillion in the previous year.

This surge in revenue is attributed to stringent compliance measures and strategic reforms introduced by CGC Adeniyi. Furthermore, his leadership in anti-smuggling operations has led to the interception of 724 seizures involving 2.93 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), a significant step in disrupting the illegal fuel trade and protecting national economic interests.

The articles; ‘CGC BA Adeniyi: Going Through Twelve Months Of Flamboyant Milestones & Pretty Targets Ahead’ and ‘ANALYSIS: CGC Adeniyi’s Uncompromised Service to Nation Building; A Reflection of Leadership Mastery’, have rightly become the catalyst for what I describe as the main meal: a clarion call to the father of the nation, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to extend the tenure of CGC Adeniyi as Comptroller-General of Customs.

Many readers, upon perusing these articles, found the request unsurprising, considering the comprehensive evidence presented by One Voice Development Initiative regarding CGC Adeniyi’s performance and its direct correlation to national growth and international recognition of the NCS.

When it comes to making positive contributions to service delivery, CGC Adeniyi has consistently surpassed expectations. Stakeholders within and outside the Nigeria Customs Service have lauded his visionary leadership and dedication.

Testimonials from former and serving Customs officers alone affirm his professional representation of the Service at various functions, his capacity to inspire confidence in his team, and his relentless efforts in repositioning the Service to meet international standards. As principled as he is, his policies have not only fostered economic growth but have also strengthened Nigeria’s reputation in global trade circles.

It is essential to highlight that ‘One Voice Development Initiative,’ a civil society organization, has not only conducted a thorough study of CGC Adeniyi’s efforts in uplifting both the Service and Nigeria, but has also chosen to voice the sentiments of countless citizens across the country. Their appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had the foresight to appoint BA Adeniyi to lead the Nigeria Customs Service, is rooted in a genuine recognition of his unparalleled contributions.

In line with his policy thrust of ‘Consolidation, Collaboration, and Reform,’ CGC Adeniyi has meticulously built on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), while introducing innovative frameworks to propel the Service forward. His trade facilitation initiatives, which include the introduction of the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) concept, have streamlined operations and enhanced the efficiency of import and export processes.

For many, the opinion of One Voice Development Initiative resonates as a reflection of the widespread appreciation of CGC Adeniyi’s relentless efforts. The initiative’s President, Ambassador Abbas Yakasai, deserves commendation for leading the charge in advocating for a tenure extension, a move that echoes the wishes of millions of Nigerians.

It is worth noting that, since the tenure of the late CGC Abdullahi Dikko Inde, the Nigeria Customs Service has not witnessed a transformative leadership by a career Customs Officer comparable to that of BA Adeniyi. His strategic foresight, emphasis on capacity building, and promotion of staff welfare have set the Service on a path of sustainable development.

Indeed, when assessing the positive inputs of CGC Adeniyi and considering the accolades from all walks of life, one cannot but appreciate the importance of pressing the ‘continuity key’ to enable the sustainability of Nigeria’s economic momentum and glory.

His laudable efforts in trade facilitation, his policy of transforming Nigeria into Africa’s most efficient trading hub, and his recent strides in redefining performance measures for key government agencies all point to a leader who is not only competent but highly committed to national development.

Given these significant achievements in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation, it is clear that CGC Adeniyi has brought unparalleled competence and innovation to the Nigeria Customs Service. Extending his tenure would not only ensure the continuity of these initiatives but would also further entrench the positive reforms needed to sustain Nigeria’s economic momentum and safeguard its borders.

Finally, I see the opinion of One Voice Development Initiative as more than just an appeal—it is a prayer sent to God and a plea to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, who means well for the nation. It is, therefore, our prayer that the God whom President Tinubu loves so much will answer this plea and continue to guide the President to make the right decision that will impact the lives of all Nigerians positively.

This article was written by Muhammad Bashir, a public commentator and analyst with a keen interest in public administration, democracy, governance, and institutional development. He can be reached via email at macbashir89@gmail.com for comments, feedback, or further discussion.