International Relations Alumni Association of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has celebrated the appointment of its Board of Trustees Chair, Customs Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, as World Customs Organisation (WCO) chair.

In a statement by its executive council, the group hailed Adeniyi’s election as a milestone for Nigeria and the global customs community.

WCO Council, comprising 186 member states, elected Adeniyi at its annual meeting in Brussels, the first time a Nigerian has assumed the top position in its 73-year history.

“Your distinguished career in Nigeria Customs Service—culminating in your role as comptroller general—has been marked by a commitment to transparency, professionalism, and transformative leadership

“These qualities not only reflect the values of our alma mater but also reinforce Nigeria’s position on the global stage,” “the association said

It noted that Adeniyi’s appointment is a source of pride for OAU’s International Relations graduates, especially considering his role as chair of the alumni body’s BoT.

“As an alumnus of International Relations at OAU, your achievement serves as a source of inspiration to us.

 “We are proud to celebrate this milestone with you and confident that your tenure at WCO will be defined by same excellence and visionary approach you have demonstrated,” the statement said.

Adeniyi took office as chairof WCO Council on July 1, succeeding South Africa’s Edward Kieswetter, commissioner of South African Revenue Service.

WCO Council functions as the highest decision-making bodyin the organisation, responsible for setting international Customs standards and guiding activities of customs administrations worldwide.

Since becoming Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service in 2023, Adeniyi has spearheaded major reforms, including the digitalization of customs processes, improved stakeholder collaboration, and record-breaking revenue generation.

Known for his integrity, innovation, and global perspective, Adeniyi has earned widespread respect within and beyond Nigeria’s borders. His new role at the WCO is expected to inject fresh dynamism and forward-thinking leadership into the global customs landscape.

The OAU alumni body stated in its message by describing the appointment as not only a professional accolade but a powerful affirmation of the university’s enduring legacy and the global impact of its graduates.