By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has lauded the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s public commendation of the Customs boss as a clear indication of the confidence reposed in him by the Federal Government.
The revered monarch stated this during the annual Eid-el-Kabir gathering hosted by the Comptroller-General at his residence in Modakeke, Osun State, on Thursday, where he described Adeniyi’s stewardship of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and contributions to community development as a source of pride to both the ancient Ife Kingdom and the Modakeke community.
The event attracted an array of dignitaries, including traditional rulers, political leaders, senior Customs officers, community stakeholders, family members, friends, and associates who gathered to celebrate the Islamic festival and reflect on issues of national development and community progress.
Speaking at the event, the Ooni said President Tinubu’s public expression of satisfaction with Adeniyi’s performance was not merely symbolic, but a reflection of the trust and confidence placed in the Customs chief’s ability to deliver on the mandate of the Service.
“We are very proud of him and the work he is doing. When Mr President publicly expressed satisfaction with his performance, it was not a casual statement. It reflects trust in his capacity and the results he is delivering,” the monarch stated.
According to him, Adeniyi has distinguished himself not only through his achievements in public service but also through his commitment to fostering unity and development within his community.
“What he is doing in the Customs Service and in the community shows that he is a unifier. He brings people together, and that is what leadership is about,” the Ooni added.
Reaffirming the support of the Ife Kingdom for the Customs boss, Oba Ogunwusi assured him of the continued prayers and goodwill of the people, noting that exemplary leadership deserves encouragement and support.
“We will continue to stand by him and pray for him,” he said.
Responding, CGC Adeniyi expressed appreciation to the Ooni of Ife, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members, friends, associates, and other guests for their unwavering support and goodwill.
He described Eid-el-Kabir as a season that embodies the values of sacrifice, gratitude, obedience, and selfless service, stressing that the lessons of the celebration remain relevant to nation-building and public service.
According to the Customs boss, beyond the festivities, the gathering provided an opportunity to reconnect with people, strengthen relationships, and reflect on the collective responsibility of building stronger communities and a more prosperous nation.
Adeniyi highlighted the progress recorded by the Nigeria Customs Service under his leadership, noting that the agency has continued to make significant strides in revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, technological innovation, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
He explained that the Service remains fully aligned with the economic objectives of the Federal Government and is actively supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda through a series of reforms designed to facilitate legitimate trade, strengthen national security, improve compliance, and create opportunities for economic growth.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to supporting government policies aimed at economic prosperity and national development. We will continue to pursue reforms that strengthen our operations and deliver greater value to Nigerians,” he said.
The Comptroller-General further disclosed that the Service has expanded its investment in community-focused interventions across the country, including educational support programmes, healthcare initiatives, and other social impact projects aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and service excellence, assuring stakeholders that ongoing reforms would continue to position Customs as a critical driver of economic development and national security.
Adeniyi also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation in his current capacity and pledged the Service’s continued support for policies designed to deepen economic growth, enhance trade competitiveness, and improve the livelihoods of Nigerians.
