By Uloma Peace Okorie
As the tenure of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, approaches its end in February 2027, there are growing calls for the Federal Government to immediately appoint him as a minister to consolidate the reforms and revenue gains recorded under his leadership.
Proponents say the move would also give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration a strong endorsement tag as a government that rewards performance and sustains results.
The Case Being Made
Record Revenue Performance
Supporters point to the sustained revenue growth under Adeniyi’s watch. “The Federal Government should thank him for the money he is making for Customs and Nigeria,” one advocate stated. Keeping him in government would ensure that revenue drive continues.
Ongoing Reforms Need Protection
Adeniyi has led digitization, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, and staff welfare reforms. Advocates warn that exiting him from service risks reversing progress. A direct move to cabinet, they say, locks in those policies.
Institutional Memory and Technical Expertise
With deep knowledge of ports, borders and revenue systems, Adeniyi is seen as an asset for ministries like Finance, Trade & Investment, or Marine & Blue Economy. His experience, supporters argue, is too valuable to lose.
Endorsement for the Tinubu Administration
Backers say appointing him immediately after retirement would brand the Tinubu government with a new identity:
“The Consolidation and Performance Government”
The message: this is an administration that identifies talent, rewards results, and prioritizes continuity over politics.
Signal to the Public Service
Promoting a technocrat who delivered would, according to supporters, motivate other MDAs to prioritize service delivery.
What Happens Next
Adeniyi’s tenure runs until February 2027. Cabinet appointments remain at the President’s discretion and subject to Senate approval.
For advocates, the logic is simple: Nigeria needs to consolidate, not restart. And keeping CGC Adeniyi in government is the fastest way to do that, while also giving the Tinubu administration a clear endorsement as “The Consolidation and Performance Government.”
Alternative names/taglines for the Tinubu govt endorsement:
“The Results and Renewal Government”
“The Continuity and Competence Administration”
“The Performance-Driven Government”