Tinubu’s Extension of Customs CG Bashir Adeniyi’s Tenure Draws Widespread Praise and Reactions
President Backs Adeniyi to Complete Key Reforms in Modernizing Nigeria’s Trade Infrastructure
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to extend the tenure of the Comptroller-General (CG) of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has sparked widespread approval across the country, with a deluge of positive reactions flooding social media platforms. Many Nigerians described the extension as a well-earned and strategic move that promises continuity in reforming the nation’s customs operations.
The announcement was made via a statement issued by Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga and subsequently shared on the official Facebook page of the Nigeria Customs Service. The one-year extension means Adeniyi will now serve as Comptroller-General until August 2026.
According to the statement, the extension is aimed at giving Adeniyi sufficient time to consolidate ongoing reforms, including the full modernization of Customs operations, the implementation of the National Single Window Project, and Nigeria’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
President Tinubu expressed unwavering confidence in Adeniyi’s leadership, emphasizing its importance to the Service’s core mandates of trade facilitation, revenue generation, and national border security.
Social media reactions to the announcement were overwhelmingly positive, with users applauding Adeniyi’s record of service and transformative initiatives since assuming office. Commentators praised the CG for his focus on institutional efficiency, transparency, and professionalism.
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Tahir Ahmed, one of the many online respondents, cited a landmark revenue achievement under Adeniyi’s leadership, noting that the Customs Service collected an unprecedented ₦6.1 trillion in 2024 alone. He also lauded improvements in enforcement, including reduced checkpoint bottlenecks and successful seizures of arms, narcotics, and other contraband.
Others highlighted internal administrative reforms. A user identified as Arafat praised the introduction of a merit-based promotion policy, under which over 4,000 senior and 1,400 junior officers were elevated in 2024. He also noted that 16 officers received special promotions in recognition of exemplary service. As part of a major capacity-building drive, more than 5,000 officers received modern operations and professional training to enhance the efficiency of the Service.
Beyond the commendations for performance, messages of goodwill and spiritual encouragement also poured in. “Masha Allah, congratulations. May Almighty Allah give you the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacles along the way,” wrote Abubakar M. Jatau. Another user, Nass JB, added, “Ya Allah, I pray that this one year should be of great success for you, sir, and the entire Nigeria Customs Service across the country.”
While the prevailing sentiment was celebratory, a few voices expressed cautious concerns about institutional transparency and the implications of extending leadership tenures. These minority opinions emphasized the need to maintain checks and balances within government agencies.
Nonetheless, the general tone of the public discourse reflected a broad endorsement of Adeniyi’s stewardship, signaling a vote of confidence in his ability to steer the Customs Service through critical reforms and into a more efficient, accountable future.
By PRNigeria
