Esther Oritse
Lagos — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the Trade Modernization Project, is set to launch a new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) system aimed at improving its operations.
Speaking at the Port Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) in Lagos, Comptroller General of the NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted that the system deployment is a key part of the service’s reform efforts designed to enhance efficiency.
Adeniyi also said that NCS, in partnership with the Trade Modernization Project Limited, is developing a homegrown ICT system that it aims to eventually export globally. During his remarks, he emphasized that the rollout of “B’Odogwu,” the new Unified Customs Management System, marks a major milestone in modernizing Nigerian customs operations and aligning with international standards.
“This initiative builds on the NCS Management’s policy direction under my leadership, which focuses on consolidating past achievements while adopting innovative solutions to long-standing challenges.
He acknowledged the critical support provided by the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy in advancing various initiatives, including the launch of B’Odogwu.
The Customs boss noted that the deployment of B’Odogwu is legally supported by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, specifically sections 28 and 29, which empower the NCS to develop and manage electronic systems. He explained that the decision to pilot the new system at PTML was strategic, given the terminal’s strong track record, modern infrastructure, and history of successful customs operations.
Adeniyi stressed the importance of B’Odogwu as a cornerstone of the NCS’s technological evolution, emphasizing that it was developed in direct collaboration with the Trade Modernization Project team after previous service providers failed to deliver as expected.
He said: “Looking forward, B’Odogwu will be central to achieving paperless customs administration, enhancing business process efficiency, improving decision-making, and facilitating ease of trade. Since the pilot phase began, the NCS has made significant progress, including training users, upgrading infrastructure, and integrating systems with key trade partners.
“The system will eventually replace the current Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) and will be integrated with the National Single Window system once it is implemented by the Federal Government. B’Odogwu is also designed to incorporate emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Virtual Reality in customs administration.
“As the pilot phase begins, Adeniyi urged stakeholders to embrace the new system with optimism and to provide feedback that will help refine and improve the platform.”
