The Nigeria Customs Service is set to deploy artificial intelligence and digital intelligence tools to combat the increasing spread of fake news and online scams. This strategic move was announced by Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, during the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations Roundtable in Abuja. The technology aims to protect the agency's reputation and ensure public safety by monitoring online information and countering misleading narratives in real-time.
The new initiative enhances the NCS's capability to track public sentiment and gain deeper insights into how citizens perceive customs activities. This technology will integrate with existing AI-assisted risk management systems used to classify imported goods and determine necessary interventions. By doing so, the NCS can improve its operations and communication with the public, fostering transparency and building trust.
The role of AI in the NCS's operations cannot be overstated, according to Adeniyi. AI has been deployed in core operational duties as well as strategic communication. The expansion of these tools will enable the NCS to establish facts and counter misleading narratives in real-time, ensuring that the public receives accurate information about customs activities.
To tackle the root cause of fraudulent online schemes, the NCS is collaborating with fellow security and digital agencies. This network aims to identify, track, and apprehend individuals orchestrating misinformation campaigns or impersonating customs officials. Effective communication ensures the public understands the reasons behind officers' actions and operations.
The NCS's initiative is crucial in the face of growing algorithm influence on public communication. The roundtable highlighted the necessity for modern agencies to adapt to these changes. By leveraging digital platforms to verify information, the NCS can dismantle fraudulent networks and prevent digital space manipulation from undermining national security or economic mandates.
The deployment of AI tools is part of the NCS's efforts to maintain a secure trade environment. By doing so, the agency aims to build public trust and ensure that its operations are transparent and accountable. This move is in line with the event's theme, "Algorithm Influence and Public Relations," which underscores the importance of adapting to changes in public communication.
The NCS's strategic move to deploy AI tools demonstrates its commitment to protecting its reputation and ensuring public safety. The agency's efforts to combat fake news and online scams will continue to evolve as it collaborates with other security and digital agencies to stay ahead of emerging threats.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service is deploying AI tools to combat fake news and online scams targeting its operations.
- The technology will integrate with existing AI-assisted risk management systems to improve operations and communication with the public.
- The NCS is collaborating with fellow security and digital agencies to tackle the root cause of fraudulent online schemes.
