Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, a proud graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has made history by being chosen as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council. This significant announcement took place on June 28, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium, where all member countries agreed to appoint him to this important role.
Adeniyi is the first Nigerian and one of the few Africans to lead the WCO in its 73 years. The WCO, based in Brussels, handles customs matters for over 185 countries, which cover approximately 98% of global trade. As Chairperson, Adeniyi will guide discussions about trade, border security, and customs cooperation worldwide.
He studied International Relations at OAU and has had an impressive career in the Nigerian Customs Service. Since 2023, as Comptroller-General, he has led reforms focused on teamwork, growth, and innovation, making Nigerian Customs one of Africa’s leading customs agencies.
The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, congratulated him and said, “His appointment shows his strong leadership and the respect he has worldwide. His journey from our university to leading a global body is a great source of pride for us.”
Professor Bamire added that Adeniyi’s new role brings honour to him and lifts OAU’s name in Nigeria and beyond. His work is an inspiration to students, showing what hard work and excellence can achieve.
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