The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has been honoured with the “Media Promoter and Advocate of Press Freedom Award” by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in recognition of his consistent support for press freedom and responsible journalism in Nigeria.
The award was presented during the 70th Anniversary Gala and Award Night of the NUJ, held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. The event, part of the union’s landmark NUJ\@70 celebrations, also featured a keynote address, a book presentation, and the conferment of awards to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the media and democratic development in the country.
Presenting the award on behalf of the NUJ 70th Anniversary Committee, the Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Jatau, described the CGC’s efforts as exemplary in strengthening media engagement and fostering transparency.
Receiving the award on behalf of the CGC, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed gratitude to the NUJ for the recognition. He noted that the CGC’s background in communications has played a crucial role in enhancing the Service’s relationship with the media.
“This recognition is a profound honour for the Nigeria Customs Service and it speaks volumes about the kind of leadership we have under CGC Adewale Adeniyi,” AC Maiwada stated. “The CGC, being a communications professional himself, understands the indispensable role of the press in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability.”
He added that CGC Adeniyi has not only empowered Public Relations Officers across commands to engage more professionally but has also improved stakeholder engagements and transparency, ultimately boosting public trust in the Service.
“This award will serve as motivation to do even more,” Maiwada affirmed. “The Service will continue to deepen its partnership with the media, support journalists in their work, and uphold the values of transparency and open communication in line with global customs best practices.”
In a related recognition, retired Customs Comptroller and Kanwan Katsina, Comptroller UK Bello, was conferred with the “Media Support Award” for his legacy of promoting press freedom and supporting media professionals during his service years. Comptroller Bello, who served nearly a decade as a Command Public Relations Officer and later as an Area Controller, was commended for fostering a culture of openness and professionalism.
In his remarks, Kanwan Katsina expressed appreciation to the NUJ and dedicated the award to all officers of the Service who believe in the power of communication. He also commended CGC Adeniyi for sustaining reform efforts within the Customs Service.
The recognition of both serving and retired officers comes as the Nigeria Customs Service continues to redefine its public image through increased visibility, strategic communications, and digital transformation—all aligned with national development goals.
The NUJ’s 70th Anniversary Gala served as a powerful reminder of the Union’s commitment to media excellence, collaboration, and advocacy for democratic values in Nigeria.