Nigeria Customs Deploys AI-Powered Intelligence Tools to Combat Fake News, Online Scams.

Nigeria Customs Deploys AI-Powered Intelligence Tools to Combat Fake News, Online Scams.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to combat fake news, online scams and misleading information through the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital intelligence tools aimed at protecting its institutional reputation and strengthening public communication.

The initiative is designed to help the Service monitor online narratives, verify information, identify misleading content and respond to false claims capable of undermining public confidence in the agency.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed the development through the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, during the 2026 Nigerian Council of the Institute of Public Relations (NECCIPR) Roundtable held in Lagos on October 30.

Speaking at the event, themed “Algorithm Influence and Public Relations,” Maiwada explained that artificial intelligence was increasingly becoming an important component of Customs operations, particularly in risk management, intelligence gathering and strategic communication.

He noted that AI assisted systems were already being used to assess imported goods, categorise consignments according to their respective risk levels and guide appropriate Customs interventions.

According to him, the technology also offers opportunities to analyse public sentiment and understand how Nigerians perceive the Service’s policies, enforcement activities and operations.

Maiwada further stated that the NCS was leveraging available digital platforms to establish facts and collaborating with relevant agencies to identify individuals responsible for circulating misleading information.

He emphasized that effective communication remained essential to ensuring that Nigerians understood the reasons behind Customs operations and the responsibilities of its officers.

The development comes amid growing concerns about the spread of online misinformation, fraudulent recruitment advertisements, fake auction announcements and impersonation of government institutions across digital platforms.

The Nigeria Customs Service has previously warned Nigerians about fraudsters impersonating its officials to advertise fictitious recruitment exercises and illegal auctions. Such schemes can expose unsuspecting members of the public to financial losses and identity theft.

Beyond institutional reputation, the increasing use of artificial intelligence in public communication raises important questions about information accuracy, transparency, privacy and accountability.

While AI powered monitoring can help institutions identify misleading narratives and respond more efficiently, its effectiveness will depend on responsible implementation, human oversight and respect for citizens’ rights.

The NECCIPR Roundtable provided an opportunity for communication professionals and stakeholders to examine how artificial intelligence and digital algorithms are influencing public opinion and shaping national conversations.

The convener, Nkechi Ali Balogun, highlighted the growing power of algorithms in determining the information people encounter, share and believe. She cautioned that digital platforms could influence political narratives and amplify conspiracy theories, underscoring the responsibility of public relations professionals to promote credible information.

The event also featured contributions from the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ike Neliaku, and former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, among other participants.

For the Nigeria Customs Service, the adoption of AI powered intelligence tools represents an expanding role for technology in both operational efficiency and institutional communication.

However, the broader test will be whether the initiative can strengthen public trust through timely fact checking, transparent communication and demonstrable action against online fraud without restricting legitimate public criticism.

As misinformation continues to challenge public institutions across Africa, the balance between technological innovation, freedom of expression and institutional accountability remains essential.