The Arbiter
In a crowd, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada stands out—a towering figure whose presence commands attention. Tall and huge, he embodies a blend of formidable stature and gentle demeanour, demonstrating that one can be intimidating yet approachable.
What captivates me most is how this gentle giant has seamlessly taken the reins of the service’s public relations from a lineage of exceptional officers. His challenge was substantial: following in the footsteps of remarkable PR managers like Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the current Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) is not a tea party. Adeniyi has significantly enhanced the public perception of the Customs through his selfless efforts, including his role in seizing $8.07 million in cash being smuggled out of Nigeria via Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Another big shoe Maiwada was called upon to fill was that of the unassuming Assistant Comptroller General Timi Bomodi, who excelled at the service’s PR Unit and when he was in charge at the Seme border.
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Under the mentorship of seasoned PR experts, Maiwada has expanded the reach of the Customs PR Unit, incorporating more credible media outlets. It is no exaggeration to say that the Customs Service is now the most positively publicised among all paramilitary organisations.
I knew him first by reputation before physically meeting with him. Being a prolific writer with an intellectual bent, he used to send his thought-provoking articles on varied topics to us to publish. We always welcomed them because his writings were among those that attracted viewers to our website.
His willingness to support others in the field and his pursuit of excellence define a true communications professional. I vividly remember how Maiwada came to the aid of Neptune Prime when we launched “The Reading of The Arbiter,” a video series where I read my weekly column. Noticing the lack of experience in our initial efforts, he reached out with constructive feedback and offered assistance. He sent a team of videographers and editors from his unit to train us, which has allowed us to improve significantly. This intervention has not only enhanced our skills but has also contributed to developing a new generation of youth equipped to navigate Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The NCS PR Unit has been actively providing updates and press releases, promoting a transparent image that is important for all government ministries and departments. Maiwada’s commitment to excellence was evident when he organised a retreat for public relations officers, inviting past members—including retired officers—to share their insights with current staff. This initiative mirrors a practice initiated by CGC Adeniyi, who sought advice from retired officers to strengthen the service upon his appointment.
The three-day retreat took place at the Customs TRADOC headquarters in Gwagwalada, Abuja, culminating in a vibrant closing ceremony filled with entertainment. Attending this well-organised event, which showcased the discipline, camaraderie, and professionalism of the PR Unit under Maiwada’s leadership, pleased me.
During the retreat, I had the opportunity to meet the unassuming ACG Timi Bomodi for the first time since his outstanding tenure at the Seme Command. Recently promoted to ACG and transferred to headquarters. Our medium, Neptune Prime, featured his story a week before. I also connected with ASCII Joseph Okpanachi Adejoh, a respectful officer I had previously liaised with via social media. That night, I witnessed his lively and engaging side—he truly was the life of the gathering.
Returning to Maiwada, his dedication to professionalism is inspiring. Born on 12 January 1987 in Katsina State, he has much to offer Nigeria through the Customs Service. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, a Master’s Degree in Environmental Management, and dual Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Mass Communication, he is currently pursuing a Doctorate focused on internal communication. CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada is undoubtedly well-prepared for the tasks that lie ahead.
Hassan Gimba, publisher and editor-in-chief of Neptune Prime, is an associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
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