By Martha Agas
The Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC) says the appointment of Adewale Adeniyi as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) has positioned Nigeria to shape global customs policies.
The Head Researcher at SEREC, Mr Eugene Nweke, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
Nweke said Adeniyi, as Comptroller-General (C-G) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), would amplify Nigeria’s voice in global customs discussions
NAN reports that the C-G was elected Chairperson of the WCO Council on June 28 during the concluding session of the 145th/146th council meeting held at it’s headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
The WCO council is the highest decision-making body in global customs administration.
Adeniyi is expected to provide strategic leadership to the WCO policy commission and steer the global customs agenda by facilitating high-level discussions on trade facilitation, revenue optimisation, security, cross-border cooperation, and digital transformation.
He is the first Nigerian to occupy the position since the organisation’s establishment.
According to the SEREC official, Nigeria can shape global customs discourse particularly on issues like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), combating illicit trade, and enhancing digital border management.
“Nigeria can drive customs innovation that supports global supply chain resilience, promoting uniformity, modernisation, and global best practices among customs administrations.
“As the first Nigerian to hold this position, Adeniyi can advocate for developing economies, particularly within Africa and the Global South, ensuring their concerns are addressed in global customs policymaking.
“This position can foster stronger international partnerships, enabling Nigeria to learn from best practices worldwide and attract foreign investment.”
Nweke described the emergence of the NCS boss as the WCO chairperson as a reflection of his qualities, coupled with his leadership at the NCS, adding that this makes him an exceptional administrator.
