NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE COLLABORATES WITH SHIPPERS’ COUNCIL ON B’ODOGWU SYSTEM DEPLOYMENT
As part of its ongoing efforts to modernise operations and enhance trade facilitation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated a high-level dialogue with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to discuss the rollout of the Unified Customs Management System, also known as B’Odogwu.
In response to concerns from freight forwarders and Licensed Customs Agents over delays and demurrage costs associated with the new system, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, held a meeting with NSC Executive Secretary, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima, on Monday, August 19, 2025, at the NCS headquarters in Abuja. The session focused on developing actionable solutions to ease the challenges stakeholders are currently facing.
Dr. Ukeyima relayed industry feedback, highlighting issues with system integration, documentation processes, and port operations. He emphasised the urgency of addressing these bottlenecks to avoid financial strain and maintain smooth cargo clearance.
CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed the significance of B’Odogwu as a central initiative under the Customs Modernisation Programme, aimed at creating a transparent and tech-enabled clearance process that meets global standards. He noted that initial hurdles are being addressed through ongoing stakeholder engagement, phased system enhancements, and continuous technical upgrades.
Both agencies highlighted the need for sustained collaboration, with plans for further consultations involving shipping companies and terminal operators. The NCS also acknowledged that transitional disruptions are common in large-scale reforms but assured that proactive measures are in place to minimise impact and reduce excess charges like demurrage.
B’Odogwu, a homegrown digital solution, is designed to centralise Customs procedures, integrate all stakeholders into a single digital ecosystem, and improve efficiency by reducing clearance times, lowering operational costs, enhancing compliance, and increasing government revenue. The NCS encourages all stakeholders to actively support the implementation, offer constructive feedback, and work together to build a modern, efficient, and globally competitive trade environment.
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