The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has been honoured with the Media Promoter and Advocate of Press Freedom Award in recognition of his unwavering support for responsible journalism and press freedom in Nigeria.
The award was presented at the 70th Anniversary Gala and Award Night of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.
Organised as part of the NUJ@70 landmark celebration, the prestigious event featured a keynote address, book presentation, and conferment of honorary awards to notable individuals who have made significant contributions to media growth and the promotion of democratic values in Nigeria.
The award was presented by the Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Rt Hon Mohammed Jatau, on behalf of the NUJ 70th Anniversary Committee.
Receiving the award on behalf of the CGC, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed profound appreciation to the NUJ leadership for recognising the Comptroller-General’s consistent efforts in strengthening media relations and promoting press freedom.
“This recognition is a profound honour for the Nigeria Customs Service and speaks volumes about the kind of leadership we have under CGC Adewale Adeniyi.
“As a communications professional himself, the CGC understands the indispensable role of the press in advancing democracy and fostering accountability” said AC Maiwada.
Maiwada highlighted how the CGC has empowered Public Relations Officers across various Customs commands to engage more transparently and professionally, leading to an unprecedented improvement in stakeholder engagement and public trust.
He added, “This award will further motivate the Service to deepen its partnership with the media, support journalists in their crucial work, and uphold transparency and openness in line with global customs best practices.”
Also recognised at the event was the Kanwan Katsina and retired Comptroller of Customs, Comptroller UK Bello, who received the Media Support Award for his enduring legacy of promoting press freedom and professional communication throughout his career.
Comptroller Bello, who served for nearly a decade as a Command PRO and later as an Area Controller, was celebrated for his culture of openness and his long-standing relationship with the media.
In his acceptance speech, the Kanwan Katsina thanked the NUJ for the honour and expressed gratitude to CGC Adeniyi for sustaining reforms and enhancing the Service’s public image. “I dedicate this award to all Customs officers who believe in the power of communication. I also commend the CGC for his good work and commitment to transformation,” he stated.
The recognition comes as the Nigeria Customs Service continues to redefine its corporate image through digital transformation, strategic communication, and transparency
