The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it is deploying artificial intelligence (AI) and digital intelligence tools to combat fake news and online scams.
The initiative is designed to monitor online information, establish facts and counter misleading narratives that could damage the service’s reputation.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the service’s spokesperson, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada.
Adeniyi spoke at the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations (NECCIPR) Roundtable.
He stressed the importance of effective communication in helping the public understand the reasons behind Customs officers’ actions and operations.
He said AI had become increasingly important in 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 enabled the service to assess imported goods and classify them according to their risk levels, helping determine appropriate Customs interventions.
He added that AI could also analyse public sentiment and provide insights into Nigerians’ perceptions of the service’s activities.
According to him, the NCS is leveraging digital platforms to verify information and collaborate with relevant agencies to identify and apprehend those 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.