The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been named the Best Corporate Spokesperson Team at the 5th National Spokespersons Awards 2025, held at the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre of the Abuja Continental Hotel.
The prestigious award ceremony capped off the two-day Nigeria Spokespersons Summit, a major national gathering of communication professionals, public sector spokespersons, and media stakeholders. The summit was graced by past and present Ministers of Information, including Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, Labaran Maku, and the current Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.
This year’s summit featured thought-provoking panel sessions and keynote presentations by seasoned communicators such as Chief Segun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State and media icon; Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reform; Prof. Tonnie Iredia, Founder of Tonnie Iredia University of Communication; Dr Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Managing Director of NECCI Consult; Mallam Mahmud Jega, Editor-in-Chief of 21st Century Chronicle; and Chief Adetokunboh Modupe, Chairman/CEO of TPT International.
The award ceremony, which commenced at 7:40 p.m., opened with a red carpet reception, cocktail, and networking session before transitioning into formal proceedings that celebrated excellence in strategic communication and public relations.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, the National Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing it as a testament to the team’s commitment and professionalism.
“This award is not about one individual it represents the collective efforts and synergy of our entire public relations team.
“We have built a culture of collaboration, transparency, and strategic engagement with stakeholders, all anchored on effective communication and reputation management” Maiwada stated.
He added that the 2025 award builds on the Service’s performance at the 2024 edition, further affirming its consistency in setting standards for public communication.
“Winning again this year confirms that we are not only sustaining our momentum but also raising the bar. We remain committed to fostering public trust through impactful and timely communication,” he said.
Themed “Voice of Influence, Champions of Change,” the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards was organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and featured remarks by the Institute’s President and Chairman of Governing Council, Dr Ike Neliaku, as well as Honourable Joshua Audi Gana and other dignitaries.
The Nigeria Customs Service was honoured alongside other leading public institutions, reaffirming the critical role of strategic communication in governance, national development, and public confidence-building.
As the curtains closed on a night of recognition and professional celebration, the Nigeria Customs Service restated its dedication to excellence in public service communication and building enduring relationships with stakeholders across the nation.
