By Nkechi Eze
In a reaffirmation of its dedication to youth engagement, knowledge transfer, and professional development, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has opened its doors to 400-level students of Mass Communication and Media Studies from Bingham University, Abuja, offering them an enriching opportunity to explore the practical dynamics of public relations in a security institution. The academic visit, held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, was led by senior lecturer and communication strategist, Mr. Sebastian Abu, and formed part of the institution’s strategic effort to connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
Welcoming the students to the Public Relations Unit, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, emphasized the critical role of strategic communication in modern governance, particularly within the operations of national security agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service. In his detailed briefing, AC Maiwada explained that the work of the PR Unit extends far beyond media relations, noting that public relations in the contemporary security environment encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that are integral to national security, economic stability, and institutional trust.
“Public relations within the Nigeria Customs Service goes far beyond what many perceive,” he stated. “Our duties include managing crisis communication, engaging stakeholders, protecting institutional integrity, and ensuring that information flow supports national objectives.”
Maiwada highlighted the need for continuous learning and adaptability, especially in an age where digital communication tools and social media have reshaped the landscape of information dissemination and audience engagement. He stressed that security communication requires precision, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of national interests. He also encouraged the students to embrace humility and remain open to learning as they prepare to transition into their professional careers.
“Communication is a dynamic profession. It evolves with technology and global realities. As future communicators, you must understand that your credibility, competence, and openness to growth will determine how far you go,” he advised.
The interaction was described by many of the students as eye-opening and deeply inspiring. During the engagement, they were given a comprehensive tour of the PR Unit, where they had the opportunity to observe the content production process, interact with officers responsible for daily communication operations, and explore the digital tools deployed in managing the public image of the Service. They also watched in-house documentary productions and examined real examples of crisis communication strategies employed by the Customs PR team to manage sensitive issues in the public space.
The visit was not only educational but also experiential, allowing the students to witness how theory translates into day-to-day operations. From media relations to strategic communication planning, digital engagement, and information management, the students received first-hand insights into the complexities and responsibilities that define the role of communicators within a paramilitary organisation.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Sebastian Abu expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Customs Service for what he described as a “strategic knowledge exchange between gown and town.” He praised AC Maiwada and his team for the professionalism, dedication, and openness they demonstrated during the visit.
“This is not just a field trip. It is a deliberate effort to expose our students to real-world challenges and how they are managed by professionals. The Nigeria Customs Service has set a model of communication practice that should be emulated across government institutions,” he said.
Mr. Abu further noted that such engagements are vital to grooming communication professionals who are not only theoretically sound but also practically equipped to deal with the demands of the industry.
Several of the students, many of whom are preparing for graduation in the coming weeks, shared their future aspirations, with some indicating interest in government communications, crisis management, and digital media. They expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Customs Service for the warm reception and the opportunity to gain valuable experience that they described as both inspiring and timely.
The excursion highlighted the importance of forging strong partnerships between academic institutions and government agencies, especially in preparing the next generation of professionals for the complex and evolving demands of public service communication.
