It was indeed a historic day April 15, 2026, the day that the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) bestowed a fellowship award on an alumnus, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, thus became the first alumnus to be so honoured.
The fellowship was awarded during a special convocation ceremony held at the Sir Kensington Adebutu Media Resource Centre, NIJ, Ijaiye Road, Ogba, Lagos, where Adeniyi was described as a distinguished professional whose contributions to national development and public service have been remarkable.
Provost of NIJ, Gbenga Adefaye, noted that the award is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated excellence and impact, stating that the honour “is not given cheaply but to those who have made meaningful contributions to society and their profession.”
From left, Vice Chairman of the NIJ Governing Council, Mr Ray Ekpu, Chairman of the Council; Aremo Segun Osoba; Fellowship Awardee & Controller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; NIJ Provost, Mr Ghenga Adefaye and NIJ Provost, Mrs Patricia Kalesanwo after the decorations: PHOTOS: Gbemile Oluwatosin
He added that Adeniyi’s emergence as the first alumnus to receive the fellowship “represents a proud milestone for the institute and a reflection of the quality of training NIJ provides.”
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Also speaking, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Olusegun Osoba, said Adeniyi’s leadership has brought significant transformation, noting that “his contributions to revenue generation and institutional reforms in the Nigeria Customs Service have been outstanding.”
The institute further highlighted Adeniyi’s global recognition as Chairman of the World Customs Organization Council, describing it as “a historic achievement that has positioned Nigeria on the global stage.”
Adeniyi who proved himself a man of oratorical power, prefacing virtually all his remarks with wisecracks and sound morals, expressed appreciation for the honour, describing it as “a call to greater service and a reminder of the values instilled in me by this institution.”
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, members of the academic community, customs officers, and media professionals.
