CGC Adeniyi Reaffirms Customs’ Support for National Merit Award, Says Excellence Must Be Recognised and Rewarded

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The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service's commitment to supporting the Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA), describing the institution as a vital platform for recognising excellence, innovation and intellectual achievement. He said rewarding outstanding Nigerians inspires future generations to embrace hard work, integrity and national development.

Key Takeaways

  • The Nigeria Customs Service pledged continued support for the Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA).
  • CGC Adewale Adeniyi described the recognition of excellence as essential to national development.
  • The Customs boss said young Nigerians must understand that success comes through diligence, commitment and innovation.
  • NNMA disclosed that only 79 Nigerians have received the prestigious National Merit Award since its establishment in 1979.
  • The courtesy visit also recognised Adeniyi's recent election as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council.


The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has pledged sustained institutional support for the Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA), stressing that organisations dedicated to recognising excellence deserve the collective backing of Nigerians. Adeniyi made the commitment on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, while receiving the Acting Secretary of the Nigerian National Merit Award, Mercy Musa, and members of the agency's management team during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

Speaking during the meeting, the Customs boss described the NNMA as one of Nigeria's most important national institutions for promoting academic, professional and intellectual excellence. He noted that recognising exceptional achievements helps motivate younger Nigerians to pursue success through discipline, innovation and perseverance rather than shortcuts. The Comptroller-General further assured the delegation that the Nigeria Customs Service would continue to explore lawful avenues of supporting the Award Office as part of its commitment to strengthening institutions that contribute to national development.

On her part, the Acting Secretary of the NNMA, Mercy Musa, congratulated Adeniyi on the recent extension of his tenure and his election as Chairman of the World Customs Organization Council, describing both achievements as recognition of his dedication, professionalism and exemplary leadership. She also highlighted the exclusivity of the Nigerian National Merit Award, revealing that only 79 distinguished Nigerians have received the country's highest honour for intellectual and professional excellence since the award was established in 1979.

Key Quotes

According to Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, "We want younger generations of Nigerians to know there is no shortcut to greatness. They must embrace hard work and commitment. When government institutions recognise discoveries, innovations and excellence, they deserve the support of all Nigerians."

According to Acting Secretary of the Nigerian National Merit Award, Mercy Musa, only 79 Nigerians have received the country's foremost award for intellectual and professional excellence since the institution was established in 1979.


National recognition programmes such as the Nigerian National Merit Award encourage innovation, research excellence and professional integrity. Institutional backing from agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service strengthens the credibility of such awards and reinforces a culture that values merit over favoritism.


For students, researchers, professionals and innovators, the renewed collaboration signals continued recognition of outstanding contributions to national development. It also highlights the importance of building a society where excellence, innovation and integrity are rewarded, creating stronger incentives for future generations to excel.


The Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA) was established in 1979 as Nigeria's highest national honour for intellectual and professional excellence. The award recognises individuals whose outstanding contributions have significantly advanced knowledge, innovation and national development. Over four decades, only 79 Nigerians have received the prestigious honour, reflecting its rigorous selection standards and national significance.



Source: Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)


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Recognition remains one of the strongest drivers of national productivity. While infrastructure and economic reforms are essential, celebrating excellence in research, innovation and public service encourages a culture where merit becomes the standard. Partnerships between institutions like the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian National Merit Award can help inspire future leaders while reinforcing values of hard work, professionalism and national service.

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