The Nigeria Customs Service has begun deploying Artificial Intelligence and digital intelligence tools to tackle fake news and online scams capable of damaging its 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 made the disclosure at the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations Roundtable, themed “Algorithm Influence and Public Relations.”
He explained that the initiative would enable the service to monitor online information, verify claims and respond to misleading narratives about its activities.
The Customs boss added that the technology would also strengthen collaboration with relevant agencies to track down and apprehend individuals responsible for circulating false information and fraudulent content.
Adeniyi emphasised the need for effective communication to help Nigerians understand the reasons behind the activities and operations of Customs officers.
He said Artificial Intelligence had become increasingly relevant to the service, not only in its operational activities but also in its communication strategies.
“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.
He further explained that the service already uses AI-assisted risk management systems to evaluate imported goods and categorise them according to their risk levels, helping officers determine the necessary interventions.
According to him, the technology can also assess public sentiment and provide useful insights into Nigerians’ perceptions of the service’s activities.
The NCS is also utilising digital platforms to authenticate information and collaborate with other government agencies in tackling the spread of misleading claims.
The roundtable provided a platform for discussions on the growing influence of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence on public communication.
