The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to expand its modernisation initiative with the nationwide rollout of the B’Odogwu platform, following the successful pilot implementation at the Port Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) Area Command.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi reaffirmed the service’s commitment to a seamless transition during a stakeholders’ engagement at the Apapa Area Command on Monday.
While acknowledging initial challenges during the PTML launch, he assured stakeholders that the implementation team was proactive in addressing them.
“With your cooperation, support, and understanding, we will resolve these challenges together. Our leadership team has established implementation benchmarks with clearly defined success criteria and contingency plans,” Adeniyi stated.
Emphasising the service’s determination to advance its digital transformation, the CGC insisted there was no turning back.
“There is no looking backwards. We are committed to rolling out this platform. We have learned valuable lessons from PTML, and now, as we move into the main operational areas, we will ensure the implementation is seamless,” he said.
Adeniyi also revealed that the service, in collaboration with banks, is working towards integrating the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) and Form ‘M’, which were not included in the PTML pilot phase.
“Once we integrate these, we can confidently say we have automated nearly 70–80% of our operations,” he added.
The CGC highlighted the platform’s proven efficiency, citing that over 16,000 declarations were processed during the PTML pilot, generating revenue exceeding ₦120 billion within three months.
He reassured stakeholders that the B’Odogwu system is robust, designed to enhance operational efficiency and revenue generation.
Deputy Comptroller-General of ICT and Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola, further reinforced the platform’s reliability, noting that “since its introduction, B’Odogwu has recorded zero downtime.”
She also stressed the importance of training to prevent system misuse, confirming that continuous training sessions are planned for stakeholders.
Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Orbih, emphasised that the platform’s success depends on collective responsibility.
“The initiative’s success hinges on how well it is embraced by all stakeholders,” he stated.
Similarly, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, assured that officers and stakeholders are fully prepared.
“As the premier port, we are ready for the next phase of customs modernisation. Extensive training has been conducted, and the feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive,” he noted.
Industry stakeholders at the pre-launch event welcomed the platform’s benefits.
Chairman of the National Council for Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Oladimeji Lawal, praised the NCS for developing an indigenous digital platform.
“B’Odogwu is faster when processing deliveries and is a significant improvement from NICIS. It is our own indigenous platform, and if Customs maintains their current momentum, it will be highly advantageous for all stakeholders,” Lawal remarked.