Customs Launches Indigenous B’Odogwu Platform, Promises Faster Clearance, Higher Revenue
Byline: Zainab Uzoma | IDNN Economic Governance Desk
In a landmark technological shift aimed at revolutionizing port operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially launched B’Odogwu, a locally developed digital platform for cargo clearance, at the Port Harcourt Area II Command, Onne.
The platform, known formally as the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), replaces foreign software systems and is expected to drastically reduce clearance time, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and enhance government revenue collection.
“We’re witnessing the release of the first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) on the B’Odogwu platform,” announced Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, Area Controller for Port Harcourt II. “This is a giant stride for Nigeria Customs and a win for stakeholders seeking efficiency and speed.”
A Homegrown Alternative to NICIS II
Unlike the previous Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) which relied on foreign technology, B’Odogwu is fully indigenous—developed by Nigerian experts to meet the unique realities of the nation’s trade environment.
Stakeholders present at the launch attested to the system’s speed and usability. Mr. Iroegbu Samuel, a licensed customs agent, said:
“From document capture to release, the process was fast and seamless. The interface is even more flexible than what we had before. Stakeholders shouldn’t fear the transition.”
Boosting Revenue, Enhancing National Trade Efficiency
With Nigeria looking to expand its non-oil revenue base, B’Odogwu is positioned as a strategic tool for enhancing Customs compliance and curbing trade leakages. Officials say it will eliminate human bottlenecks, improve tracking, and foster accountability across the clearing chain.
“This innovation aligns with the digital transformation goals set by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and signals the Service’s readiness to compete globally,” Babandede added.
Call for Nationwide Adoption
The Nigeria Customs Service is now calling on importers, exporters, agents, and port operators to embrace the platform and become part of a “digitally empowered” trade future.
“We invite all stakeholders to adopt B’Odogwu and experience its operational advantages firsthand,” said the Command.
The platform is expected to roll out nationwide following full optimization at the Port Harcourt pilot command.
