The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command has recorded revenue of over ₦161 billion within three weeks of operating its new digital platform, known as the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System.
Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, revealed the figures while addressing stakeholders following growing concerns about the functionality of the newly introduced system. Despite initial setbacks and system disruptions, Comptroller Olomu assured that the B’Odogwu platform is steadily improving and is expected to outperform previous ICT systems deployed by the Service.
Between 1st and 22nd August 2025, the Apapa Command collected ₦161 billion, a significant feat attributed to the resilience of officers and cooperation from port users despite technical hitches.
Olomu commended the patience and professionalism of importers, freight forwarders, and licensed customs agents, particularly during the early stages of the platform’s rollout. He noted that the dedicated ICT team within the NCS has been working tirelessly to resolve outstanding issues, with round-the-clock efforts to stabilise the system.
“Stakeholders have shown remarkable maturity and commitment during this period,” he said. “Their confidence in the Nigeria Customs Service is not misplaced. We remain optimistic that B’Odogwu will not only meet but surpass expectations in facilitating trade.”
The Comptroller also underscored the strategic importance of the Apapa Command in meeting national revenue targets and supporting trade efficiency. He disclosed that the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has maintained high-level discussions with the Nigerian Shippers Council to mitigate the impact of recent system downtimes, particularly with regard to demurrage concerns.
Further demonstrating the Service’s commitment to stakeholder engagement, Zonal Coordinator Charles Orbih visited the Apapa Command to directly address the concerns of port users, emphasising the NCS’s responsiveness and readiness to support trade.
In response to delays caused by earlier system outages, Olomu has instructed officers to extend their working hours — including weekends — to fast-track the clearance of backlogs and minimise disruptions.
“The CGC is deeply involved in the solution process,” Olomu added. “Efforts are ongoing with other government agencies to ensure that waivers and operational reliefs are secured where necessary. We are doing everything within our power to restore full confidence in the system.”
The B’Odogwu system, developed as a homegrown ICT solution, represents a major shift in the automation of customs processes in Nigeria, aimed at enhancing transparency, speed, and accountability in port operations.
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