The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to innovation and digital transformation in public sector communication through strategic engagement with artificial intelligence (AI) experts.
On Monday, June 23, 2025, the Service hosted renowned AI strategist and digital consultant, Mr. Celestine Achi, at its headquarters in Abuja. Achi, who is the author of “AI-Powered PR: The Essential Guide for Communications Leaders to Master Artificial Intelligence”, was warmly received by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, alongside senior officers from the Public Relations Unit.
In his remarks, Assistant Comptroller Maiwada described the visit and presentation of the book as timely and enriching, adding that the Nigeria Customs Service recognises the value of technology-driven storytelling in fostering transparency and public trust.
“The Nigeria Customs Service believes that storytelling backed by data and powered by modern technology is a strategic tool for deepening public trust,” Maiwada stated. “We are committed to adopting innovations that enhance the effectiveness and integrity of our communication systems.”
In response, Mr. Achi commended the Service for its professionalism and forward-looking communication infrastructure. He lauded the NCS for demonstrating excellence in public relations within the government ecosystem.
“I was deeply impressed by the intentionality, professionalism, and forward-thinking excellence of the NCS team,” Achi said. “The converged media facility and strategic communication approach here are exceptional, with sentiment scores at 85% a remarkable achievement in today’s digital age.”
During the visit, Mr. Achi also unveiled the NCS Live PR Attribution Dashboard, a custom-built AI-powered analytics platform that tracks and visualises the media performance of the Service’s communication efforts since the appointment of Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in 2023.
Describing the tool as a groundbreaking innovation in public communication, Achi said:
“This dashboard is the first of its kind in the public sector. It shows that Customs is not just adapting to digital trends but actively shaping the future of government communication.”
The engagement further reinforced the Service’s dedication to collaborative learning, strategic innovation, and digital leadership in institutional communication.
