Customs boss urges PR officers to strengthen public trust

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has called on Public Relations Officers within the agency to adopt strategic and impactful communication strategies to bolster public trust, support ongoing reforms, and enhance the organization's credibility. These remarks were made following the conclusion of the 2026 Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, which ran over four days with the theme “Realigning Corporate Communication as a Strategic Driver of Institutional Effectiveness and Public Trust.” Adeniyi emphasized the growing importance of communication in the functioning of public institutions, stating that successful reforms depend on public understanding and acceptance. He highlighted how global trends have transformed communication from a supportive role into a core strategic function. According to him, reforms will fail unless they are clearly explained and embraced by the communities they aim to benefit. The conference brought together officials and professionals from across the Nigeria Customs Service, including the Acting Zonal Coordinator of Zone 'C,' Comptroller Pascal Chibuoke, who described corporate communication as a vital strategic asset. Chibuoke argued that this form of communication can shape public perception, build stakeholder confidence, promote transparency, and reinforce the legitimacy of the institution. Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, stated that the conference represented a significant step forward in evolving the Service’s corporate communication strategy. Previous conferences had been held in Lagos, Gwagwalada, and Kano, each contributing to the development of a more robust communication framework. Maiwada noted that the event aimed not just to share ideas but to create actionable solutions, strengthen professional ties, and position Public Relations as a critical component of the Service’s operations. Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, the Customs Area Controller of Port Harcourt Area I Command, acknowledged Adeniyi’s focus on professional growth and institutional capacity-building. She encouraged attendees to implement the insights gained during the conference to elevate service delivery across all commands. Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, and Alhassan Yahya, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, both commended Adeniyi for his efforts in embedding strategic communication practices within the Nigeria Customs Service. They urged Public Relations Officers to maintain high levels of professionalism in their work. The conference included several technical sessions focusing on topics such as Customs modernization, crisis communication, media intelligence, digital innovation, stakeholder engagement, and emerging communication technologies. These discussions aimed to equip participants with tools and strategies to better communicate the Service’s initiatives and achievements to the public. Participants engaged in workshops and panel discussions that explored the challenges and opportunities presented by new communication platforms and technologies. The sessions also addressed the need for timely and accurate dissemination of information, particularly in the context of increasing reliance on digital media and social platforms for public interaction. The event underscored the recognition among Nigeria Customs Service leaders of the pivotal role played by effective communication in maintaining public trust and supporting institutional goals. As the Service continues its reform agenda, the emphasis on strategic communication reflects a broader commitment to transparency, accountability, and improved public engagement.