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, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja.
Adeniyi spoke at the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations (NECCIPR) Roundtable, themed 'Algorithm Influence and Public Relations'. The roundtable examined the growing impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on public communication. Adeniyi stressed the importance of effective communication in helping the public understand the reasons behind Customs officers' actions and operations.
According to Adeniyi, AI has become increasingly important in Customs operations, particularly in risk management and strategic communication. He explained that AI-assisted risk management enables the service to assess imported goods and classify them according to their risk levels, helping determine appropriate Customs interventions. This has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of Customs operations.
The NCS is also leveraging AI to analyze public sentiment and provide insights into Nigerians' perceptions of the service's activities. This allows the service to respond promptly to public concerns and improve its relationships with the public. Adeniyi added that the NCS is collaborating with relevant agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for spreading misleading information.
The use of AI in Customs operations is not new, as it has been deployed in core operational duties over the years. However, the service is now expanding its use of AI to counter fake news and online scams. This move is in response to the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation, which can damage the service's reputation and undermine public trust.
The NCS is working to verify information and identify those responsible for spreading false information through digital platforms. This involves collaboration with other agencies to track down and prosecute individuals or groups engaged in online scams. By doing so, the service aims to maintain public trust and confidence in its operations.
The deployment of AI and digital intelligence tools is part of the NCS's efforts to modernize its operations and improve its relationships with the public. The service recognizes the importance of adapting to new technologies and using them to improve its operations and communication with the public.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service is deploying AI to combat fake news and online scams.
- The initiative aims to monitor online information and counter misleading narratives.
- AI will be used to analyze public sentiment and provide insights into Nigerians' perceptions of the service's activities.
