Customs Launches Indigenous Technology “B’Odogwu” at Area II Command, Port Harcourt
Kathy Kyari
The Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS) has launched its new indigenous technology, the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), also known as B’Odogwu, at the Port Harcourt II Area Command.
A statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Theophilus Duniya on Tuesday, said this was a significant move aimed at enhancing trade efficiency and boosting revenue collection.
According to the statement, the technology, designed to modernize Customs operations, was officially deployed at the Area II Command to further the Service’s drive toward automation, compliance, and trade facilitation.
Speaking during the deployment, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, emphasized the importance of embracing innovation.
“It is imperative for the Command to key into the Service’s efforts to fully automate its services to improve efficiency, enhance compliance and optimize revenue collection,” he stated.
Marking a milestone in the use of the new system, the first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) on the B’Odogwu platform, with reference number C1202505PN was successfully processed and released.
Comptroller Babandede hailed the development as a “giant stride” made possible under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.
According to him, “This technology facilitates efficient and timely clearance of goods; thereby, reducing delays and costs for businesses.”
The release was witnessed by both Customs officers and stakeholders. One of the agents present, Mr. Iroegbu Samuel, expressed satisfaction with the platform, citing its speed and simplicity.
“From my experience going through the process, from the capturing to the release was very short and fast. People should not entertain any fear or doubt because it’s not far different from the NICISS platform. However, it is more flexible,” he said.
The Customs Area Controller encouraged stakeholders and the public to adopt the B’Odogwu system, assuring them of its efficiency and the Service’s commitment to transforming Customs operations across Nigeria.
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