The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has been recognised as the “Iconic Maritime Personality of the Year 2024”, an award presented by the Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NMJ) group in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the national economy.
Speaking at the award ceremony on Thursday, 13 February 2025, Adeniyi expressed optimism about sustaining the positive momentum achieved in 2024, despite the challenges ahead.
“Gradually, we are beginning to restore some sanity in the environment of policy formulation and implementation, where we play a significant role. In 2025, we will continue on the same trajectory, ensuring that duty collection is conducted in an environment that fosters ease of trade facilitation,” he stated.
Expressing his gratitude for the honour, the CGC acknowledged the significance of the award, noting its potential to unify stakeholders in maritime journalism.
“The symbolism of this award is that we now have something that serves as a rallying point for all associations within the maritime journalism industry,” he remarked.
He further called for unity among maritime journalists and freight forwarders within the shipping industry, urging journalists to engage in training programmes that would enhance professionalism and strengthen the industry.
Chairman of the Award Planning Committee, Dele Aderibigbe, highlighted the significance of the recognition, describing it as a unanimous decision by all maritime journalists.
“This is the first time in the sub-sector that everyone has come together to honour a truly deserving performer who has made both the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the nation proud through his purposeful, professional, and patriotic leadership,” Aderibigbe stated.