The Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) has conferred the prestigious 'Most Articulate and Strategic Customs Image Maker of the Year 2026' award on CSC Abdullahi-Lagos Abiola, the Public Relations Officer of the Lagos Free Trade Zone Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Recognition at AMJON Conference
The award was presented during the annual AMJON Conference and Awards ceremony, which gathered key maritime industry stakeholders to celebrate excellence, professionalism, and outstanding contributions within the sector. AMJON officials commended Abiola for his exceptional role in public communication, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement within the NCS.
Strategic Communication Impact
The association highlighted that Abiola's strategic approach to information dissemination and crisis communication has significantly bolstered public confidence in Customs operations, particularly at the Lagos Free Trade Zone Command. The recognition reflects his consistency in delivering accurate, timely, and clear information while effectively bridging the communication gap between the Service and the trading community.
Career and Background
Abiola joined the NCS in 2011 as an Assistant Superintendent of Customs I and has built a strong reputation in public relations and strategic communication. Prior to his current role, he served as Command Public Relations Officer in the Oyo/Osun and Kano/Jigawa Area Commands. Born on October 10, 1984, in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State, he attended Staff Nursery and Primary School, Ijanikin, and Egan High School, Lagos. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from Lagos State University and an Executive MBA from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. A member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), he has participated in several professional development programmes focused on media relations and strategic communication.
Response to Honour
In his response, Abiola expressed gratitude to AMJON for the recognition, describing the award as a motivation to further promote professionalism, transparency, and effective communication in his duties. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening stakeholder engagement in support of the NCS's mandate.
Industry observers note that the award underscores the growing importance of strategic communication in the maritime sector, especially as government agencies implement reforms and digital innovations aimed at improving operational efficiency and service delivery.
