In an auspicious ceremony held at the International Conference Center in Abuja on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) was honoured with the Award of Excellence in Regulatory Compliance by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
According to Yusha’u Shu’aibu, the Managing Director and CEO of Image Merchant Promotion Limited, this recognition underscores the NCS’s commitment to upholding regulatory standards and fostering effective communication practices within the organisation.
The esteemed award was presented to the NCS, received by the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, a distinguished figure of the Institute who served as the Vice President of the Institute and the longest-serving National Public Relations Officer (NPRO) in the history of the Service.
Presenting the award to CGC Adeniyi, representatives of the NIPR and IMPR saluted his doggedness, stating that “his leadership and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the NCS’s reputation for compliance and transparency. Thus, the Nigeria Customs Service has been carefully selected for this remarkable award.”
In stiff competition, the Nigeria Customs Service emerged as the deserving recipient of the award, surpassing contenders such as the Nigeria Communications Commission and Green Ville LNG, which, according to the juries, “highlighted the NCS’s unwavering commitment to regulatory standards and its proactive approach to compliance in a rapidly evolving landscape.”
In addition to this commendation, the NCS’s National Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, clinched the prestigious title of ‘Best Spokesperson Of The Year 2024’ at the NIPR’s highly competitive awards ceremony.
According to the event organisers, CSC Maiwada’s emergence as the National Spokesperson of the Year highlights his exceptional communication skills and strategic prowess, which have played a pivotal role in enhancing the NCS’s public image and fostering transparent communication channels.
In his acceptance speech, CSC Maiwada expressed heartfelt gratitude to CGC Adeniyi for his unwavering support and mentorship, emphasising the pivotal role of effective leadership in driving organisational success.
He also extended his appreciation to the dedicated members of the PR Unit at the NCS Headquarters and across the country for their collaborative efforts in maintaining the Service’s reputation.
Looking ahead, CSC Maiwada reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the NCS’s communication objectives and implementing robust PR strategies under the guidance of CGC Adeniyi, adding, “CGC Adeniyi’s dedication and leadership serve as a testament to the NCS’s ongoing efforts to uphold regulatory compliance and transparency while fostering positive public relations.”