Fight misinformation, Customs CG urges 70 new NIPR inductees

The Nigeria Customs Service has inducted 70 public relations officers into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, marking a significant step in professionalizing its communication arm. This is the first mass induction for the agency in 13 years, underscoring a renewed focus on strategic communication and combating misinformation.

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In a significant move to strengthen strategic communication and professionalise its public relations workforce, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations has inducted 70 public relations officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, marking the Service’s first mass induction into the Institute since 2013.

Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi described the induction as a strategic investment in the Service's communication architecture. He emphasized that effective public communication is essential for sustaining ongoing reforms and boosting public confidence. Adeniyi highlighted the agency's transformation, including its recognition in the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business initiative, as a result of deliberate institutional reforms that require professional communication.

As the Customs Service transitions to a technology-driven administration, Adeniyi warned the newly inducted officers about increased public scrutiny. He urged them to remain vigilant against misinformation and false narratives that could undermine the agency's achievements. "Rumours will be heard, narratives will be pushed, so be ready to use your communication with clarity and the necessary measures so rumours can be addressed swiftly and decisively," he charged.

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As the Service transitions to a technology-driven customs administration, public relations practitioners must remain proactive in countering misinformation, managing public perception and sustaining stakeholders’ confidence. Rumours will be heard, narratives will be pushed, so be ready to use your communication with clarity and the necessary measures so rumours can be addressed swiftly and decisively.

Additionally, Adeniyi announced that the Service's flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, Customs Cares, is set to receive international recognition at the upcoming Commonwealth Games. He stressed the importance of amplifying the program's impact through ethical and strategic communication.

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The Service’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, Customs Care | Src: The Punch (NG)