A coalition of 37 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has thrown its weight behind the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, alleging that recent attempts to discredit him are being sponsored by smugglers and individuals affected by ongoing reforms within the service.
The coalition, addressing journalists at a press briefing in Abuja, unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Adeniyi, describing his leadership as transparent, reform-driven, and focused on strengthening revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations.
Coalition's Investigation and Findings
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Amadi Chinda of the Initiative for Community Development stated that the coalition conducted a thorough investigation and assessment of the Customs Service under Adeniyi's leadership over the past three years. According to Chinda, the findings revealed that Adeniyi introduced reforms that significantly improved productivity, accountability, and operational efficiency.
Chinda alleged that those behind recent media attacks against the Customs CG are individuals whose illegal activities have been disrupted by stricter enforcement measures and policies introduced by the NCS. He said: “We have discovered that those who have contracted some sections of the media to blackmail CG Adeniyi are those whose illicit and illegal businesses have been grounded to a halt by the policies and operations of the NCS since he took over the leadership of the service.”
Smear Campaign Aimed at Undermining Reforms
The coalition maintained that the alleged smear campaign is targeted at undermining reforms that have blocked loopholes previously exploited to divert public revenue. The groups said Adeniyi’s reforms are anchored on a three-point agenda of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation, aimed at improving trade facilitation, reducing the cost of doing business, and strengthening border security.
According to the coalition, the Customs Service under Adeniyi has intensified anti-smuggling operations, enhanced regional and international trade integration, and improved institutional capacity through technology-driven reforms.
Revenue Achievements Under Adeniyi
Highlighting some achievements, the coalition cited a reported N7 trillion revenue generation in 2025, including N1.75 trillion realised in the first quarter, which exceeded targets by 106.5%. They also pointed to the N6.1 trillion generated in 2024, comprising N3.6 trillion remitted into the Federation Account, N1.6 trillion in Value Added Tax (VAT), and over N800 billion in levies, surpassing the government’s N5.07 trillion target by 22%.
The CSOs attributed the revenue growth to operational reforms, stricter enforcement, and improved transparency. They referenced the planned $3.2 billion e-Customs modernisation project, expected to increase efficiency, automate processes, and reduce cargo clearance delays at ports and border stations.
Benefits to Traders and Importers
According to the coalition, the reforms have also benefited traders and importers, particularly in the South-East. Many previously faced difficulties moving between Lagos and Port Harcourt for cargo clearance. The coalition stated: “The South-East merchants long constrained by moving between Lagos and Port Harcourt to clear their imports, and the high cost of hinterland logistics, have emerged as major beneficiaries of his trade facilitation drive.”
The groups noted that the Customs Service achieved the reported revenue growth despite granting concessions worth N1.68 trillion in 2024 to support economic activities and businesses. Based on 2025 performance, projections indicate the service could generate up to N9 trillion in 2026.
Call for Continued Support
The coalition also said Adeniyi’s leadership style and reforms have earned him several local and international recognitions, evidence of his dedication and integrity. The CSOs called on Nigerians to ignore “cheap blackmail” against the Customs boss and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to retain Adeniyi to sustain ongoing reforms and revenue generation efforts within the Nigeria Customs Service.
