By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched B’Odogwu, a revolutionary Unified Customs Management System, commencing with a pilot phase in Lagos at Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML).
This innovative platform represents a significant milestone in Nigeria Customs’ modernisation journey, aligning with global best practices.
Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted the significance of B’Odogwu, stating, “B’Odogwu is our new customs management system that embodies our vision for a paperless customs administration that facilitates seamless trade while maintaining robust security measures.”
He noted that B’Odogwu will eventually replace the current Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) as the NCS Legacy System.
The system’s development acknowledges the forthcoming National Single Window and will integrate with it upon implementation by the Federal Government.
Adeniyi revealed the legal framework supporting the initiative, citing sections 28 and 29 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which empower the Service to develop, maintain, and employ electronic systems while ensuring transparency and stakeholder consultation.
Adeniyi urged stakeholders to embrace the change optimistically, providing constructive feedback to refine and improve the system. “B’Odogwu will enhance our ability to streamline end-to-end business processes, provide stakeholders with customised integration capabilities, support more efficient and intelligent business decisions, and facilitate ease of doing business,” he said.
The Comptroller General expressed gratitude to terminal operators, customs officers, licensed customs agents, and the Trade Modernisation Project team for their support. He charged PTML command officers to take training seriously, as they will implement the system in other commands.
The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) has declared support for the initiative, acknowledging the transformation of the clearing profession.