Adewale Adeniyi, who graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has been made the new Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council. The announcement was made on June 28, 2025, during a WCO meeting in Brussels, Belgium.
This makes him the first Nigerian and one of the few Africans to have ever led the WCO in its 73-year history. The WCO is the top global body overseeing customs work, with over 185 member countries that cover 98% of global trade. Adeniyi is currently the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service and has implemented numerous reforms since assuming office in 2023.
OAU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, congratulated Adeniyi, saying his success brings pride to the university and the country. Adeniyi’s rise is viewed as a significant victory for Nigeria and a powerful example of African excellence on the global stage.