The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the development of an indigenous modernisation software, ‘B’Odogwu,’ in response to repeated failures of foreign technology solutions that have hindered smooth cargo clearance at the country’s ports.
The NCS pointed out that the decision to develop the software came after foreign systems had consistently failed, leading to significant revenue losses for the nation.
According to The PUNCH, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, revealed the new system while addressing the media at the Ports & Terminal Multipurpose Limited during an assessment of the project at Tincan Island in Lagos.
Importers and clearing agents have long voiced their frustrations over frequent server outages, which have caused delays in the documentation and clearance processes, ultimately leading to costly demurrage fees.
Adeniyi explained that the software was developed as a direct response to unsatisfactory performances by previous foreign service providers.
“It is disappointing when organisations fail to leverage their extended presence in Nigeria to build credible reputations that could benefit them both locally and internationally,” he said.
He noted that these foreign systems have failed the country time and time again. “The number of times they have been down is greater than the times they have been operational,” Adeniyi lamented.
Years of service interruptions, even after multiple contract extensions, left the NCS no choice but to find a more reliable solution.
The former Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System expired in December 2022, and the NCS decided it could no longer wait for these providers to deliver. Instead, they moved forward with an in-house solution tailored to the nation’s specific needs.
Adeniyi outlined that B’Odogwu aims to streamline the entire cargo clearance process, improve decision-making, and provide stakeholders with customised integration capabilities.
The platform is designed to facilitate ease of doing business at the ports and is a significant step towards leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and mixed reality in customs operations.
He further highlighted that the service is not just focused on introducing new technologies but also on upgrading the infrastructure at key locations.
PTML has been fitted with enhanced network infrastructure to accommodate the new system’s demands.
The complexities of trade declarations and the evolving characteristics of Nigeria’s import-export business are also being addressed, Adeniyi stated.
In addition, the NCS is rolling out an automated verification platform for agents, which will streamline the process for obtaining licences and permits, making it easier for stakeholders to comply with customs regulations.
Adeniyi acknowledged that, as with any major technology shift, challenges are inevitable during the implementation phase.
However, he reassured stakeholders that a dedicated technical support team would be on standby to swiftly address any issues, ensuring the smoothest possible transition to the new system.
