“B'Odogwu" System Gets To Pre-Launch Phase at Apapa and Tin-Can Ports

By Winifred Ngozi Orji  

Harboursandport.com: Lagos State, Nigeria - March 3, 2025: The Nigeria Customs Service kicked off the pre-launch of its "B'Odogwu" trade facilitation system at Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports in Lagos on Monday. This follows a successful pilot phase at the PTML Command earlier this year.

CGC BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI

Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, clarified during a stakeholder meeting at the Apapa Command on Monday that the "B'Odogwu" system deployment is a pre-launch phase, not a full implementation. He emphasized that this is due to the large scale of the Apapa Command.

He explained that the new system marks a break from the past, replacing the outdated NICIS system with a more robust and indigenous solution.

Adeniyi explained that the Federal Government has awarded a new concession to Trade Modernization Project (TMP) Limited to develop the "B'Odogwu" Unified Customs Management System. He highlighted that this decision was made in response to the frustrations experienced with previous Customs management platforms.

He explained that B’Odogwu, a Nigerian term, stands for “Border” and “Odogwu,” symbolizing strength and leadership.

Adeniyi acknowledged the challenges faced during the pilot phase at PTML, but reassured stakeholders that any issues would be addressed collaboratively.

He likened the transition to the introduction of PAAR in 2013, noting that while system changes come with initial difficulties, the commitment of Customs officials and industry players would ensure successful implementation.

Adeniyi also revealed that all commercial banks have been fully integrated into the system for seamless Form ‘M’ openings.

He disclosed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has endorsed the service implementation of B’Odogwu and directed all authorized dealers to key into the system.

He assured stakeholders that implementation benchmarks and clear success criteria had been established, with a dedicated help desk available to resolve any emerging issues.

Deputy Comptroller General of Customs (DCG) in-charge of Information, Technology and Modernization, Kikelomo Adeola who provided insights into the pre-launch process, assured stakeholders of continuous engagement to refine the system.

She explained that the NCS had carried out extensive internal testing to ensure a smooth transition.

She emphasized the need for cooperation from all industry players, stating that Customs officers and stakeholders must work together to address any emerging issues.

Zonal Coordinator, ACG Charles Orbih, reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring the success of the new system.

He described the B’Odogwu deployment as a significant step in modernizing Nigeria’s customs operations and urged stakeholders to embrace the changes.

He emphasized that the success of the initiative depends on the willingness of Customs officers and industry players to adapt, learn, and grow with the system.

Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Command, Babatunde Olomu, commended the CG for his commitment to modernization and stakeholder engagement.

He stated that every visit of the CG to Apapa leaves an indelible mark in supporting revenue growth, trade facilitation, and security.

He emphasized that ICT and upgraded modernization infrastructure are critical to achieving the NCS’ goals, adding that the command has been intentional about training its officers for a smooth transition. He disclosed that batch-by-batch training sessions have been conducted for newly promoted assistant and deputy controllers to familiarize them with the new system.