By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has received fresh national recognition as its National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, has been named among Nigeria’s top 50 PR and communications professionals on the 2025 PR Power List.
The prestigious annual list, compiled by GLG Communications in collaboration with The Guardian Newspaper, was officially released on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The PR Power List recognises outstanding individuals who are shaping narratives, redefining communication practices, and delivering measurable impact across Nigeria’s public relations and media landscape.
Assistant Comptroller Maiwada was honoured in the “Changemakers” category, which celebrates professionals known for challenging traditional communication norms and deploying innovative strategies that drive institutional transformation.
Reacting to the recognition, AC Maiwada described the award as a deeply humbling milestone and an affirmation of the ongoing progress in public communication by the Nigeria Customs Service.
“This recognition is deeply humbling. It speaks to the commitment of the Service to modernise public engagement, enhance transparency, and build trust through effective storytelling and timely dissemination of accurate information,” he stated.
Maiwada further credited the achievement to the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, noting that his vision has created an enabling environment for innovation in strategic communication within the Service.
“While I am honoured to be listed, I believe the greater credit goes to the team I work with and the visionary leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, whose reforms have empowered us to think differently, act boldly, and represent the Service with dignity and professionalism,” he added.
According to GLG Communications, the PR Power List is structured into four categories, Rising Voices, Community Impact, Change makers, and Fourth Estate each spotlighting professionals across different sectors of influence, including corporate communication, public policy, journalism, and advocacy.
In a statement signed by Oreani Ogbe, Managing Partner at GLG Communications, the 2025 edition of the list was described as a tribute to professionals “shaping the future of public relations through bold moves, long-term experience, and impact-driven communication.”
Maiwada’s inclusion on the list is widely viewed as a reflection of the growing credibility and professionalism of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in its renewed focus on transparency, stakeholder engagement, and strategic messaging.
Under the current leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS has made significant strides in public sector communication, with AC Maiwada playing a prominent role in amplifying reform efforts and enhancing the public image of the Service.
