Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pre-launched its locally developed trade facilitation technology, “B’Odogwu,” at the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos. This follows an earlier pilot phase at the PTML Command, where the system has already generated ₦120 billion from 16,000 entries.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ interactive session in Apapa, Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, expressed confidence that the new system would help the NCS meet its ₦6.58 trillion revenue target for the year.
However, he clarified that the current deployment at Apapa is still in the pre-launch phase due to the command’s large scale.
The “B’Odogwu” system is set to replace the outdated NICIS platform, offering a more robust and indigenous solution tailored to Nigeria’s trade environment.
The federal government awarded the contract for its development to Trade Modernization Project (TMP) Limited, ensuring a Unified Customs Management System that addresses previous challenges in customs operations.
Adeniyi explained that the name “B’Odogwu”reflects African and Nigerian heritage, symbolizing “Border” and “Odogwu” a term signifying strength and leadership.
Deputy Comptroller General Kikelomo Adeola assured stakeholders that the NCS is committed to continuous engagement and refinement of the system, while Zonal Coordinator ACG Charles Orbih emphasized the importance of collaboration for its successful implementation.
At the event, Apapa Command’s Customs Area Controller, Babatunde Olomu, praised the Comptroller General’s modernization drive, stating that the deployment of “B’Odogwu” will enhance revenue growth, trade facilitation, and security.
He also confirmed that officers have undergone batch-by-batch training to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.