The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) and digital intelligence tools to combat fake news and online scams. This initiative aims to monitor online information, establish facts, and counter misleading narratives that could damage the service's reputation. The move was disclosed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, at the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations (NECCIPR) Roundtable in Abuja.
According to Mr. Adeniyi, AI has become increasingly important in customs operations, including risk management and strategic communication. The service has been using AI-assisted risk management to assess imported goods and categorize them according to their respective risk levels. This enables the service to determine appropriate customs interventions. The use of AI has also helped the NCS to analyze public sentiment and provide insights into Nigerians' perceptions of the service's activities.
The NCS is also leveraging digital platforms to establish facts and collaborate with relevant agencies to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for spreading misleading information. The roundtable, with the theme 'Algorithm Influence and Public Relations,' examined the growing influence of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on public communication. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the role of AI in shaping public perception and its implications for public relations.
The Comptroller-General of Customs emphasized the importance of effective communication in helping the public understand the rationale behind customs officers' actions and operations. He noted that the service is committed to transparency and accountability in its operations. The use of AI tools is expected to enhance the service's communication strategy and improve public trust.
The Nigeria Customs Service has been taking steps to improve its operations and communication with the public. The service has been working to reduce the risk of fake news and online scams by engaging with the public through various channels. The deployment of AI tools is part of the service's efforts to stay ahead of emerging trends and challenges in the digital age.
The use of AI in customs operations is becoming increasingly common globally. Many countries are leveraging AI to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their customs operations. The Nigeria Customs Service is following suit, recognizing the potential benefits of AI in enhancing its operations and communication with the public.
The deployment of AI tools by the Nigeria Customs Service is a significant development in the country's efforts to combat fake news and online scams. The move is expected to enhance the service's reputation and improve public trust. The service's commitment to transparency and accountability is commendable, and the use of AI tools is a step in the right direction.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service is deploying AI tools to combat fake news and online scams, and improve public trust.
- The use of AI will enhance the service's communication strategy and improve public trust.
- The deployment of AI tools is part of the service's efforts to stay ahead of emerging trends and challenges in the digital age.
