The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has met with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to address operational issues surrounding the implementation of its new Unified Customs Management System, known as B’Odogw.
The meeting was prompted by concerns from freight forwarders and licensed customs agents about delays and demurrage costs.
NCS, in a statement on Tuesday, said the Commission Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, met with the Executive Secretary of the NSC, Akutah Ukeyima, at the NCS headquarters in Abuja.
The discussion focused on finding solutions to mitigate the challenges faced by port operators. Ukeyima conveyed feedback from the industry, highlighting issues with system integration, documentation, and port logistics.
He emphasised the need for prompt action to prevent further financial losses and disruption in the cargo clearance process.
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Adeniyi acknowledged that B’Odogwu is a key component of the Customs Modernisation Programme, designed to create a more transparent and technology-driven clearance system.
He assured the NSC that initial challenges would be resolved through continuous stakeholder engagement, phased improvements, and system upgrades. Both organisations stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration and dialogue.
The NCS stated that further consultations with other stakeholders, including shipping lines and terminal operators, are planned to streamline processes and address emerging concerns.
While acknowledging that transitional issues are expected with large-scale reforms, the NCS affirmed that measures are being put in place to limit disruptions and prevent excessive costs for operators.
The B’Odogwu platform is an indigenous system designed to centralise customs procedures, integrate all stakeholders, reduce clearance times and costs, and enhance government revenue.
The NCS is urging all stakeholders to support its implementation by providing constructive feedback and partnering with the service to build a modern and efficient trade ecosystem.
