The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is working towards significantly reducing cargo clearance time, aiming for completion in less than 24 hours.
The Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG) in charge of ICT Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola, made this known at a stakeholder sensitisation event held in Apapa on Monday, 3 February 2025.
The DCG emphasised the Service’s commitment to achieving this target through the B’Odogwu system. She highlighted the robust training programme to equip stakeholders with the necessary skills to effectively utilise the new system.
She said, “Our modernisation project has introduced a robust training programme to ensure all stakeholders are equipped to effectively use the B’Odogwu system.”
“At PTML, stakeholders, including agents and importers, have reported an improved system with no downtime experience. In accordance with our ongoing capacity-building efforts, we aim to implement these resources across all Customs commands,” she added.
DCG Adeola acknowledged the pivotal role of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in trade facilitation and expressed hope for their continued collaboration. “Together, we can achieve a future where Customs operations meet the demands of the present while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.”
Representing the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Administration, Henry Eromobor, acknowledged that while the new system might face challenges, it is here to stay.
“Of course, we know every system has its own challenges, and this new one won’t be an exception. However, the norm is that we should take things as they come, and above all, we will see a great testimony,” he stated.
Stakeholders present at the event expressed enthusiasm for the B’Odogwu system.
Godson Emoka, Managing Director (MD) of Jaelith Bonded Terminal, praised the initiative, stating, “B’Odogwu will help everyone and boost our economy, so I appreciate it. As a stakeholder, I say thank you to the Service.”
A technical session on the B’Odogwu system was conducted by the head of the implementation team, Assistant Comptroller (AC) of Customs, Christophe Fanyam.
The sensitisation event was held at Apapa and the Murtala Muhammed Area Commands, with stakeholders in attendance, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Airline Agencies, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Shipping Lines and Shipping Companies, the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and Bonded and Terminal Operators.
