The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi , has flagged off the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System at Port & Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML) on Wednesday in Lagos aimed at enhancing modernisation of the service
Addressing a press briefing in Lagos , Adeniyi said the B’Odogwu will mark a significant milestone in modernizing Nigeria’s customs operations, while aligning with global best practices
He disclosed that it was developed through collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Trade Modernisation Project team which replaces the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) and it embodies the vision for a paperless customs administration, facilitating seamless trade while maintaining robust security measures.
Adeniyi added that PTML was selected for the pilot due to its exemplary history of smooth interactions between customs and stakeholders, modern infrastructure, substantial transaction and good volume of trade.
He also acknowledged the support of the Honourable Minister of Finance and the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration while adding that the programme is backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023
” This Policy thrust is also aligned with the strategic objectives of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Administration to make NCS more effective and efficient for the benefit of Nigerians. The support for the actualisation of this has been midwifed by the Honourable Minister of Finance and coordinating Minister of the Economy in the implementation of Several initiatives including
today’s roll-out of B’Odogwu that epitomises NCS drive to adapt and adopt cutting-edge technology to enhance our customs processes and procedures. Our choice of PTML for this pilot implementation is deliberate and strategic.
“This is not a random selection or an experimental trial rather, it is a calculated
decision based on PTML’s proven track record. As a key vehicle transshipment hub connecting Europe and Africa, PTML has consistently demonstrated operational excellence and maintained robust infrastructure that supports seamless customs operations” he said
While stressing on the anticipated technical challenges during the initial stage Adeniyi made it known that a dedicated team of technical experts will provide round-the-clock support to ensure a seamless transition and B’Odogwu will eventually integrate with the National Single Window, currently under development by the Federal Government, a platform designed to complement Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality technologies in customs administration.
” I want to address an important point upfront: yes, we anticipate some
technical challenges during this roll-out phase. This is normal with any new system implementation, and it should not cause alarm. We have positioned a dedicated team of technical experts to provide immediate support and ensure as smooth a transition as possible. This team will be available round-the-clock to address any issues that may arise.
” Furthermore, we have successfully tested and are now ready to deploy
integration APIs with our key partners in the trade supply chain, including
Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), Shipping Lines, Bonded Warehouses, and partner government agencies. Our stakeholder interactions to sensitize traders and
agents on B’Odogwu have yielded overwhelmingly positive feedback. We will
continue to engage and listen to their concerns, and I assure you that B’Odogwu
is here to stay and will address those concerns effectively”
