B’Odogwu: Taking Customs Operations to Next Level
By Tahir Ahmad,
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has already embraced a new era of digital transformation with B’Odogwu, an innovative platform designed to revolutionize trade facilitation, streamline operations, and boost revenue collection.
This cutting-edge system marks a significant leap from the outdated Nigerian Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II), positioning Nigeria at the forefront of customs modernization in Africa.
Last Thursday, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, held a strategic meeting with the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, to solidify the integration of B’Odogwu with financial institutions.
This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency of customs transactions, ensuring seamless trade documentation and duty payments. According to Adeniyi, B’Odogwu was conceived to replace NICIS II following the expiration of its service contract.
The new system is designed to tackle inefficiencies in trade clearance, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and align Nigeria’s customs operations with international best practices. It was first deployed at the Port and Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command in Lagos, where it facilitates critical processes like Form M and the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR).
Despite initial resistance from some Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), which delayed integration, the CBN has now intervened, instructing all financial institutions to comply with the new system. Governor Cardoso reassured the NCS of the CBN’s commitment to ensuring the success of B’Odogwu, recognizing its potential to enhance financial transactions within the trade ecosystem.
Cardoso commended the Customs Service for its innovative approach and pledged his support in ensuring the initiative’s success. “I am pleased to see a new direction in Customs operations. Collaboration is key, and we will continue to work closely to ensure seamless integration,”
“Our commitment is to provide the necessary support so that the banking sector aligns with this transition,” Cardoso said. He assured that the apex bank would work towards ensuring compliance among commercial banks with directives to improve trade processes and enhance revenue collection efficiency.
Launched on October 23, 2024, at PTML Customs Command, B’Odogwu represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s customs reform agenda. It is a product of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the NCS and Trade Modernization Project Limited, backed by the Federal Executive Council’s approval in April 2023.
The system is a core component of Nigeria’s broader plan to implement a National Single Window for trade, a move that will further consolidate its status as a hub for digital customs operations.
Adeniyi emphasized that B’Odogwu is not merely an upgrade but a fundamental shift in customs operations. Built in-house by NCS ICT officers, the platform ensures that trade clearance is more transparent, efficient, and resistant to corruption.
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The system also aligns with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which empowers the agency to develop and deploy digital solutions for border security and trade facilitation.
Deputy Comptroller General of Customs in charge of ICT, Kikelomo Adeola, described B’Odogwu as a centralized and user-friendly system that integrates advanced technology for real-time trade monitoring. Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Chinyere Nwankwuchu, highlighted its effectiveness in reducing cargo clearance times, which now takes less than eight hours—provided traders comply with accurate declaration procedures.
The name B’Odogwu, meaning “greatness” in Igbo, reflects Nigeria’s ambition to set a new standard in customs administration. Unlike previous systems, B’Odogwu incorporates sophisticated digital tools, including electronic cargo tracking, automated risk management, and non-intrusive scanners, ensuring a more secure and efficient trade environment.
Dr. Jummai Zainab Umar-Ajijola, Managing Director of Trade Modernization Project Limited, noted that B’Odogwu is a game-changer in customs operations. She stressed that its successful deployment would enhance Nigeria’s trade competitiveness, making it a model for other African nations seeking to digitalize their customs processes.
Stakeholders in the logistics and trade industry have also praised the initiative. Abdul-Rahman Elias, CEO of Tallman Logistics Ltd., commended B’Odogwu for its potential to eliminate trade delays and enhance compliance.
Similarly, Juliet Anyaegbu, a manager at Libra Circle Ltd., lauded the system’s ability to simplify trade documentation and reduce human interference in customs processes.
To ensure the long-term success of B’Odogwu, the Federal Government must enforce compliance among financial institutions while continuously improving the system’s functionalities. Training programs for customs officers, importers, clearing agents, and bank officials will be crucial for smooth adoption.
Additionally, leveraging emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and blockchain will further strengthen security and efficiency. Public awareness campaigns should also be launched to educate stakeholders about B’Odogwu and encourage its widespread adoption. Establishing a robust feedback mechanism will help address potential challenges and enhance user experience.
With B’Odogwu, Nigeria is taking a bold step towards a fully digital customs administration. If properly implemented and maintained, the platform will not only improve trade efficiency and revenue collection but also position Nigeria as a leader in digital customs operations across Africa.
The leadership of CGC Bashir Adeniyi and all stakeholders involved in this transformative initiative deserve commendation for their vision and commitment to modernization.
Tahir Ahmad is an Information and Media Studies graduate from Bayero University, Kano. He is currently a Corps member serving at PRNigeria Centre, Abuja.
Email:[email protected].
