WTO DG Okonjo-Iweala Applauds CGC Adeniyi’s Reforms at WCO Council Session in Brussels

WTO DG Okonjo-Iweala Applauds CGC Adeniyi’s Reforms at WCO Council Session in Brussels

BRUSSELS – June 26, 2025 — The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its ongoing reforms and leadership in customs modernisation and trade facilitation under Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

Speaking during the opening session of the 145th/146th Customs Co-operation Council meeting held at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Headquarters in Brussels, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala lauded CGC Adeniyi’s efforts to align Nigeria’s customs operations with international standards, describing the Service as a continental model in trade and border administration.

“The leadership of CGC Adeniyi has positioned Nigeria as a model for customs modernisation across the continent,” the WTO chief stated. “These efforts are critical to strengthening global trade and ensuring that customs administrations contribute meaningfully to economic development.”

She also noted the NCS’s progress in leveraging technology, improving compliance frameworks, and enhancing border procedures. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala emphasised the continued importance of addressing complex trade issues such as customs valuation and rules of origin, which are essential for effective and transparent trade facilitation.

Responding to the commendation, CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude to the WTO Director-General, calling her recognition a major boost to the Service’s ongoing transformation drive.

“We are honoured by Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s remarks. Her acknowledgment of our work is both humbling and energising,” CGC Adeniyi said. “It reaffirms that our reforms—ranging from automation and institutional transparency to digital innovation and leadership renewal—are on the right path. We remain committed to strengthening customs operations in line with global best practices.”

Adeniyi further pledged Nigeria’s support for regional integration and the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting the role of Customs in ensuring smooth cross-border trade.

The Customs chief also highlighted the growing collaboration between the WCO and the WTO, especially following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2025. The agreement fosters cooperation in vital areas such as customs valuation, rules of origin, and trade facilitation—pillars critical to boosting trade performance among developing nations.

“We commend the leadership of WCO Secretary-General Ian Saunders for advancing cooperation between global trade institutions,” Adeniyi added. “Nigeria is fully aligned with this shared vision and remains committed to reforms that promote secure, efficient, and transparent trade.”

The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its dedication to modernising its operations and leading customs administrations across Africa toward innovation and compliance that support global trade growth.