The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again demonstrated its leadership in strategic communication as the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, was installed as Vice Chair of the Body of Advisers for the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG) during the ongoing 2025 Nigeria Public Relations Week in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The week-long event, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), began on May 19 and runs through May 23. It has brought together communication professionals, government representatives, and private sector players to examine the role of public relations in national development.

CGC Adeniyi’s appointment to the NRMG advisory body highlights the Customs Service’s growing influence in shaping public narratives, promoting transparency, and reinforcing institutional trust. In his remarks, the CGC expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as a national call to duty.

“I consider it a privilege to be part of this important national assignment,” he said. “With the calibre of individuals involved, I’m confident that we can reshape how Nigeria tells her story—both at home and on the global stage.”

Adeniyi will work alongside other notable figures, including John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Television, who was appointed Chair of the advisory board. The advisory body is tasked with guiding the NRMG’s efforts in managing and projecting a coherent, credible, and positive image of Nigeria.

Also representing the Customs Service at the event was Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS National Public Relations Officer, who delivered a paper titled *“Advances in Government, Policy and Regulatory Communication.”*

In his presentation, Maiwada underscored the importance of strategic messaging, citizen engagement, and the adoption of modern communication tools in driving policy success.

“The changing dynamics of governance and policy implementation require us to speak clearly, truthfully, and strategically,” he stated. “At Customs, we’ve realised that beyond informing the public, there’s a need to build understanding and trust.”

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, declared the conference open, emphasizing the federal government’s renewed focus on strategic communication as a tool for national unity and economic development.

As activities continue at the 2025 Nigeria Public Relations Week, the participation of the Nigeria Customs Service has reinforced its standing as a forward-looking institution committed to effective communication, institutional reform, and national reputation building.