By Ayomide Otitoju
As the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) prepares for the full deployment of B’Odogwu, Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to grant the necessary approvals for Authorized Dealer Banks to integrate into the new system.
Adeniyi emphasized that authorization is critical to ensuring seamless transactions ahead of the nationwide rollout of the platform across Customs commands.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, the Customs chief reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the apex bank to facilitate trade and enhance revenue generation. He noted that the transition to B’Odogwu would significantly benefit Nigeria’s economy.
Transforming Customs Operations
The B’Odogwu system, an indigenous trade facilitation platform developed by the NCS, is set to replace the existing Nigerian Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS) II.
“This initiative aims to modernize Customs operations, improve efficiency in trade documentation, and enhance revenue collection,” Adeniyi stated.
Highlighting the importance of seamless integration between Customs and financial institutions, Adeniyi noted that the system would automate foreign exchange transactions and trade-related payments. He explained that the government opted for the new platform following the expiration of its contract with the previous service provider, which had undergone multiple extensions before the government entered a new concession agreement in 2023.
Pilot Phase and Challenges
The NCS began piloting the B’Odogwu system at the Port and Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command in Lagos, engaging key stakeholders, including the CBN.
“Three months into the pilot phase, we successfully integrated critical trade documentation processes such as Form M and Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR). However, we encountered initial resistance from some Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs),” Adeniyi noted.
He also highlighted inefficiencies in the current manual process of communicating exchange rates from the CBN to Customs for duty collection, stressing the need for automation. While appreciating the CBN’s support, he urged continued collaboration to ensure a smooth nationwide implementation of B’Odogwu.
CBN Pledges Support
In response, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso commended the NCS for its innovative approach and pledged the apex bank’s support for the initiative.
“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 CBN would work towards ensuring compliance among commercial banks with directives aimed at improving trade processes and enhancing revenue collec
