The Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded its highest monthly revenue collection of ₦44.9 billion in November 2024, attributed to the successful implementation of the new customs trading platform, B’Odogwu.
Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, disclosed this during a press briefing on Wednesday, highlighting that the platform, currently in its pilot stage at PTML, has significantly improved revenue generation and operational efficiency.
Daniyan addressed concerns about the platform’s rollout, refuting claims that four vessels had been left unattended at the PTML berth due to system failures. He assured stakeholders that challenges raised by agents had been addressed in meetings earlier in the week, with further support available through the implementation team.
To mitigate teething issues, the command has employed manual processes for cargo clearance while collaborating with the terminal operator to facilitate trade for port users already engaging with the platform.
The CAC urged agents to register on B’Odogwu to fully integrate into the system, noting that some complaints stem from agents yet to complete their registrations. “B’Odogwu is a Nigerian baby that should be fed by Nigerians. We are weaning our baby from a foreign mother and urge all Nigerians to support it. We are not going back to NICIS II,” Daniyan emphasized.
He also highlighted progress in onboarding financial institutions to the platform, with over five banks already connected and arrangements underway for 17 additional banks on the interswitch payment platform to join. These interactions, facilitated by the NCS ICT/Modernisation Department, are expected to be resolved by Thursday.
Daniyan reassured stakeholders of the command’s commitment to resolving challenges. “As the problems come up, we are solving them. The management has dispatched an implementation team here to ensure stakeholders don’t suffer,” he stated.
He also underscored that B’Odogwu’s implementation at PTML is a critical step toward modernizing customs operations across Nigeria. “We are committed to getting it right here before moving to Tin Can and other ports. Our turnaround time for properly declared RoRo cargo remains two hours, dependent on declarant compliance. However, we will not compromise national security and revenue for trade facilitation,” he added.
Daniyan revealed that 292 bills of lading were successfully captured on the platform in November, while 375 remain pending. Additionally, over 98 importers had paid duties under the B’Odogwu platform by Wednesday.
The PTML Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Muhammad Yakubu, further reiterated the NCS’s dedication to addressing stakeholder concerns and ensuring the platform’s smooth implementation.
The introduction of B’Odogwu represents a significant stride toward achieving the NCS’s modernization goals, setting the stage for enhanced efficiency and increased revenue collection in Nigeria’s ports.