The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) deploys its electronic cargo clearing device code named “B’Odogwu” in the Apapa Port and Tincan Island Area Commands for effective operations
By Our Correspondent
Following the pilot implementation of the B’Odogwu platform at the Port Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said arrangements have been concluded to expand its modernisation initiative with the nationwide rollout of the platform.
Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, who made this known during the pre-launch with stakeholders’ engagement at Apapa Area Command on Monday, March 3, 2025, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to a seamless transition despite initial challenges.
He noted that the launch at PTML command experienced a number of hitches, but the implementation team was on hand to address some of them. “With your cooperation, support, and understanding, we will address all those challenges together. Our leadership team has established implementation benchmarks with clearly defined success criteria and contingency plan.
Speaking on the next rollout phase, the CGC underscored the service’s determination to move forward without setbacks, insisting: “There is no looking backwards. We are focused on rolling out this platform. We have learned valuable lessons from PTML, and now, we are in the main place, and we want to ensure that the implementation will be seamless moving forward.”
In a statement made available to journalists by Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer (NPRO) of the Service, he (Adeniyi) noted that the service, in collaboration with Nigerian banks, is working towards integrating PAAR and Form ‘M’, which were not included in the PTML pilot scheme, adding: “Once we capture that, we can conveniently say that we have captured almost 70-80% of our operations.”
The CGC expressed optimism, citing the success recorded in PTML, where over 16,000 declarations were processed, generating revenue in excess of N120 billion within three months. He assured stakeholders that the system is robust and designed to improve efficiency and revenue generation.
Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of ICT and Modernisation, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, highlighted the platform’s stability, stating: “Since its introduction, B’Odogwu has recorded zero downtime.”
She also stressed the importance of training to prevent system abuse, affirming that continuous training sessions are planned for stakeholders, who acknowledged the benefits of the new system.
On his part, Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, ACG Charles Orbih, who stressed the need for collective responsibility in making the platform successful, stated that the initiative’s success depends on how well it is embraced.
Similarly, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, and Comptroller Babatunde Olomu assured that officers and stakeholders are well prepared. “As the premier port, we are ready for the next phase of customs modernisation. Extensive training has been conducted, and the testimonials from participants are positive,” he noted.
Chairman of the National Council for Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Oladimeji Lawal, commended the service for developing an indigenous platform, saying: “B’Odogwu is faster when you want to take delivery; faster and different from NICIS; it’s our Indigenous platform, which is going to be favourable for us if customs can work as they started.”
