By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to a transparent, efficient, and inclusive rollout of the B’Odogwu clearance platform, assuring stakeholders of ongoing improvements based on their feedback.
He gave the assurance during a town hall meeting with stakeholders in Lagos on Monday, 21 July 2025, themed “Enhancing Trade Compliance and System Optimisation Through Stakeholder Engagement.”
According to him, the town hall stemmed from a series of consultations—some led by the support team, others by the ICT/Modernisation Department, and many personally by him over the past two weeks.
“It’s important we create this platform to allow you to share your concerns with us and describe your experience using B’Odogwu,” he said.
While acknowledging reports of challenges, the CGC noted that the feedback has not been entirely negative.
“We’ve received a number of positive responses from stakeholders, including freight forwarders and agents,” he added.
Adeniyi reiterated the Service’s vision to make B’Odogwu a benchmark for digital trade facilitation, especially since Nigeria currently chairs the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
“Our goal is to make B’Odogwu the reference point in trade facilitation. Now that Nigeria holds the WCO chairmanship, we want to show the world we can create and manage a home-grown system.”
He also addressed concerns surrounding the newly introduced 4% Free On Board (FOB) charge, clarifying that it will replace multiple existing levies.
“Once the 4% FOB takes effect, the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) will cease automatically. In addition, the 7% cost of collection currently charged will also be completely removed,” he explained.
“Under the new Act, the 4% FOB is paid upfront—and that’s it. Thereafter, 100% of the revenue generated by Customs will go into the Federation Account. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
In her welcome address, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of ICT/Modernisation, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, underscored the strategic value of stakeholder collaboration.
“This town hall is not just another event; it’s a vital platform to engage our valued trade partners on the B’Odogwu Clearance System.”
She emphasised that B’Odogwu is a locally developed project and praised stakeholders for their support in making it a national success story.
Also speaking, Saleh Ahmadu, Chairman of Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL), assured participants of the initiative’s long-term benefits.
“As we transition into a 21st-century Customs Service, TMPL is committed to investing in the right technology, people, and services. This project will significantly enhance the experience of all users in the trade value chain.”
The town hall featured panel sessions on “Overcoming Common Importer Challenges on B’Odogwu” and “Enhancing Transparency, Speed and Revenue through Full Participation.”
Stakeholders commended the efficiencies introduced by B’Odogwu but also raised concerns about system migration, amendment delays from banks, and related issues.
A robust question-and-answer session wrapped up the event, clarifying key emerging matters.
