Today, October 18, 2025, marks a landmark moment in the distinguished career of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, DSM, FNIPR, PSC(+), as he is awarded his PhD in Leadership and Strategic Studies from Federal University of Lokoja.
This academic milestone builds on an already remarkable trajectory of service, leadership and reform within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
From his roots in Modakeke, Osun State, Adeniyi has consistently demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and institutional excellence. His academic background is formidable: a Bachelor of Science in International Relations from Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly University of Ife, Ile-Ife) in 1987; and a Master of Arts in Communication Science from Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), Lugano in 2013.
Across more than three decades in the NCS, the quinquagenarian has held an array of leadership and operational roles – from National Public Relations Officer to Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, and ultimately being appointed substantive Comptroller-General in October 2023.
His exemplary leadership has recognized nationally and internationally. In October 2022 he received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for meritorious service; while the World Customs Organization’s WCO Council also elected him Chairperson in June 2025 – a historic first for a Nigerian.
Under his watch, the NCS has embarked on a reform agenda characterised by modernisation, transparency, trade-facilitation and revenue enhancement. Reports show significant improvements in monthly revenue collection, reduction of illicit checkpoints, and strengthened enforcement effectiveness.
The attainment of the PhD signals not only Dr. Adeniyi’s personal commitment to leadership excellence and strategic thinking, but also reinforces his ability to guide the NCS and Nigeria’s border ecosystem into a new era. By combining rigorous academic training with decades of practical experience, Dr. Adeniyi is uniquely positioned to lead transformational change.
As he is today honoured for his academic achievement, it is also a moment for the whole public-service and trade logistics community to reflect on the synergy of knowledge and leadership.
“We congratulate Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on this achievement and look forward to the fruits of his leadership for Customs in trade facilitation and national development,” DCG Dera Nnadi mni remarked.
Congratulations, Doctor!
