By Femi Anamelechi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has agreed to collaborate with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) on the implementation of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, a flagship initiative under the Service’s modernization programme in Abuja on August 18, 2025In a joint meeting between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the Executive Secretary of the Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima, the parties highlighted concerns raised by freight forwarders and licensed Customs Agents over delays and demurrage linked to the early stages of B’Odogwu’s rollout. Dr. Ukeyima who conveyed feedback from operators pointed out the challenges around system integration, documentation, and port logistics and said these has created bottlenecks that demanded urgent intervention. He emphasized the need for collaboration between agencies to minimize financial losses and ensure smooth cargo clearance operations.In his response, the Comptroller-General reaffirmed that B’Odogwu remains central to Customs’ modernization agenda, aimed at delivering a more transparent, technology-driven, and competitive clearance process. He assured that transitional challenges would be addressed through phased improvements, continuous system upgrades, and structured consultations with stakeholders.
“If there are areas which you want us to do advocacy on, we are willing to do that. The port concession agreement is already on the eve of signing other concession agreements with other terminal operators and, when those come back, we can call our stakeholders” he stated. Both agencies agreed to strengthen communication and engagement strategies, underscoring the importance of regular dialogue with freight forwarders, shipping lines, and terminal operators. Further consultation sessions are planned to harmonize expectations and align solutions for seamless implementation.The NCS noted that while initial setbacks are normal with reforms of this scale, measures are being introduced to reduce disruptions and safeguard operators from undue costs such as excessive demurrage. The Service reiterated its commitment to creating a predictable and transparent trade environment in line with World Customs Organization (WCO) standards.
