Presidents of Maritime Media Associations with the Awardee, CG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi during his Iconic Award Night at Ikeja Airport Hotel on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025
It was a night of Who is Who in the nations maritime industry as Ikeja Airport Hotel plays host to the honouring of the current Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
Opening the gates of accolades was the Coordinator, Customs FOU Zone A, Ikeja, OC Orbih.
In his speech, he averred that “It is my distinct honor to stand before you today to celebrate a remarkable leader whose visionary stewardship has transformed the Nigeria Customs Service and left an indelible mark on our maritime sector.
He prayed the CG to permit him express our profound gratitude for your visionary leadership that has elevated the Nigeria Customs Service to unparalleled heights of efficiency and professionalism.
Orbih made it clear that “The conferment of the “Iconic Maritime Personality of the Year 2024” award on the Comptroller-General of Customs reflects the remarkable transformation that has occurred within the Service under his astute leadership.
“The modernization of our customs procedures, strengthening of risk management systems, and optimization of revenue collection processes have yielded unprecedented results. In the past year alone, we achieved record-breaking revenue figures, contributing significantly to the federal government’s fiscal objectives.
“Under his leadership, the Service has fostered stronger partnerships with other government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector. These strategic alliances have improved intelligence sharing, leading to more effective joint operations in combating smuggling and other forms of customs offenses. The harmonious relationship has also facilitated trade, reduced clearance times, and enhanced compliance levels among stakeholders.
According to Orbih, “The deployment of cutting-edge technology has revolutionized our operations. Advanced scanning systems and digital solutions have significantly improved our cargo examination processes and risk management capabilities. These innovations have reduced cargo dwell time and improved ease of doing business at our ports.
“Sir, your leadership excellence has inspired a generation of customs officers who now approach their duties with renewed vigour and commitment. The emphasis on continuous training and capacity building has equipped our officers with the knowledge and skills needed to meet contemporary customs challenges. The result is a more competent and confident workforce that consistently delivers on its mandate.
“The international recognition garnered by the Nigeria Customs Service under your leadership speaks volumes. From the World Customs Organization to regional bodies, your innovative approaches to customs administration have become reference points for best practices. Your diplomatic acumen has strengthened our international partnerships and positioned Nigeria as a key player in global trade facilitation.
“As Zone ‘A’ Coordinator, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of the Comptroller-General of Customs’ exceptional leadership style. His consultative approach, decisive decision-making, and result-driven mindset have been instrumental in cultivating a culture of transparency, accountability, and meritocracy. His open-door policy has fostered an environment of trust and collaboration, motivating officers to strive for excellence and achieve outstanding results
In conclusion, he sort the permission of the celebrant to commend the distinguished maritime journalists whose unwavering commitment to excellence through this award ceremony exemplifies the finest traditions of maritime journalism in Nigeria. Your shrewd observations and promotion of best practices continue to elevate standards across our maritime sector.
“The CGC Sir, as you receive this well-deserved award today, please accept the assurances of our continued loyalty and commitment to implementing your vision for a modern, efficient, and world-class customs administration. Your exemplary leadership continues to bring out the best in us, and we are proud to serve under your authority. Congratulations once again, CGC Sir, on being named the “Iconic Maritime Personality of the Year 2024.”
“This honour does not just reflect your personal achievement but the collective success of the entire Nigeria Customs Service under your visionary leadership.
Earlier in his speech, the chairman of the occasion, Prince Ola Shittu said whereas the award is well deserved, “by this honours, you have been called to do more to the industry
In his acceptance speech, CG Adeniyi hailed the Nigerian maritime journalists’ for standing firmly behind the Nigerian Customs at all times and assured continued good relationship throughout his tenure as CGC and beyond.
