Nigeria Customs Service Launches Revolutionary B'Odogwu Platform: A Game-Changer for Trade Facilitation and Revenue Generation
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a bold step towards transforming the country's customs operations with the launch of the B'Odogwu platform, a cutting-edge technology designed to streamline processes, enhance revenue generation, and facilitate trade. The platform, which was piloted at the Port Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command, has been rolled out nationwide, marking a significant milestone in the service's modernization efforts.
Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, during a pre-launch high-level stakeholders' engagement at Apapa Area Command on Monday, 3 March 2025, reaffirmed the service's commitment to a seamless transition, despite initial challenges during the PTML pilot. He noted that the implementation team addressed some of the issues, and with stakeholders' cooperation, they will overcome the remaining challenges.
"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 have established implementation benchmarks with clearly defined success criteria and contingency plan," Adeniyi said.
Speaking on the next rollout phase, the CGC underscored the service's determination to move forward without setbacks. "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," he said.
Adeniyi noted that the service, in collaboration with the banks, is working towards integrating the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) and Form 'M', which were not included in the PTML pilot. "Once we capture that, we can conveniently say that we have captured almost 70-80% of our operations," he added.
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.
Zonal Coordinator, Zone 'A', ACG Charles Orbih, emphasised collective responsibility in making the platform successful. He 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.
Stakeholders at the pre-launch acknowledged the benefits of the new system. Chairman of the National Council for Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Oladimeji Lawal, commended the service for developing an indigenous platform.
"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," he remarked.
The nationwide rollout of the B'Odogwu platform is expected to transform Nigeria's customs operations, making it more efficient, transparent, and trade-friendly. With its robust features and user-friendly interface, the platform is poised to revolutionize trade facilitation in Nigeria, boosting economic growth and development.
The B'Odogwu platform is designed to provide a single window for customs operations, enabling importers and exporters to submit documents and make payments online. The platform also features a robust risk management system, which will help to reduce the incidence of smuggling and other forms of customs fraud.
With the B'Odogwu platform, the NCS aims to increase revenue generation, reduce clearance times, and improve the overall efficiency of customs operations. The platform is also expected to enhance transparency and accountability, as all transactions will be recorded and tracked electronically.
The successful rollout of the B'Odogwu platform is a testament to the NCS's commitment to modernization and trade facilitation.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of global trade, the B'Odogwu platform is poised to play a critical role in enhancing the country's competitiveness and economic growth.
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