The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it is deploying artificial intelligence (AI) and digital intelligence tools to tackle fake news, online scams and misleading information about its operations.
The initiative is designed to monitor online content, verify information and counter false narratives capable of damaging the service’s reputation.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed this at the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations (NECCIPR) Roundtable in Abuja.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the service’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, Adeniyi emphasised the importance of effective communication in helping the public understand the rationale behind Customs operations and the actions of its officers.
He said AI had become increasingly important to Customs operations, particularly in risk management and strategic communication.
“The role of AI cannot be overemphasised, especially within our operations. Over the years, AI has been deployed in our core operational duties as well as strategic communication,” he said.
Adeniyi explained that AI-assisted risk management tools enable the service to assess imported goods, classify them according to risk levels and determine appropriate Customs interventions.
He added that the technology could also analyse public sentiment and provide insights into how Nigerians perceive the service’s activities.
The Comptroller-General said the NCS was leveraging digital platforms to verify information and working with relevant agencies to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for spreading misleading information.
The roundtable, themed ‘Algorithm Influence and Public Relations’, examined the growing impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on public communication.
