Comrade Chinedu Ukatu, president NPMA.
Story by Dili Utomi.
“The incumbent Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi is a cerebral administrator, an innovative mind whose flurry of ideas is repositioning the Nigeria Customs Service to become world class in all ramifications”.
The above are some of the words used to describe the person of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi (Ph.D) by Comrade Chinedu Ukatu the president of the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, an umbrella Market Association of over 58 differently specialised markets in Nigeria.
Comrade Ukatu made the remarks in a telephone conference interview with a few journalists, Tuesday while giving his goodwill message on the birthday of the CG and the subsequent celebration of the International Customs Day, 2026.
He noted that”the exemplary professionalism that has been demonstrated by CG Adeniyi over the years has earned him rare reviews, the chairmanship position at the Board of Council, World Customs Organisation and the elongation of his tenure as the Comptroller-General of Customs by the president of Nigeria”.
Comrade Ukatu opined that the CG who is a public relations guru has brought his wealth of experience to bear on the administration of the Nigeria Customs Service thereby making it much more efficient in the performance of its core mandates of the protection of the national economy, trade facilitation and revenue generation.
He added that the CG still has a lot more to give to his country as he celebrates his 60th birthday anniversary. His words “CGC Adeniyi at 60 is young, energetic, still very brilliant and in great physical condition, Nigeria is blessed to have such a person at the helms of the NCS and chairman of the Board of WCO”.
Comrade Ukatu.
“I join my voice with that of the FG to commend the NCS led by CGC Wale Adeniyi on its positive step towards improving revenue collection and national security. The ₦7.281 trillion revenue generated by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in 2025 is a significant achievement, exceeding the annual target.
“We are looking forward to reaping the dividends of the ongoing reforms and modernisation, as to enhance trade facilitation, transparency, and economic growth. The NCS’s focus on intelligence-led operations to seize prohibited goods is also commendable”.
“However, the success of these reforms depends on effective implementation, addressing corruption, and ensuring the welfare of customs officers. The government is yet to prioritise these aspects to maximize the impact of the reforms and values added to the trading public and citizens”.
Comrade Ukatu noted that “This is a positive trajectory for Nigeria’s customs service, with potential benefits for the country’s economy and security.
I appeal to Nigeria Customs not to concentrate on their targets but effect more friendly policies that will enhance trade facilitation”.
“Nigeria Customs Service should also explore further ways on implementation of AfCFTA agreements in order to promote pan African trade”.
“I want to wish the CGC many more years of vibrant contribution to the country in great health of the mind and body. He concluded.
For advertisement and more information please contact us on 08027590195, 08035721540 or email us at greatalternativenigltd@gmail.com, diliutomi1@gmail.com or send us messages on x @dn_utomi or on Instagram @utomidili
