…Says Era Of Network Downtime Over.
In its move to facilitate trade with ICT tools in its modernasation project, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched B’Odogwu, a new Unified Customs Management System, starting with a pilot phase in Lagos at Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML).
Addressing newsmen on Wednesday 23rd October 2024, at PTML Command, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi said the Command is being used as a pilot scheme for the project.
He said the B’Odogwu which is developed and implemented by the Customs is a home grown project under the Customs modernasation project and it will replaced Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICISII).
CGC Adeniyi assured that with B’ Odogwu the era of Saver downtime is over as the portal will leverage on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Virtual Reality among other modern ICT tools.
“I am delighted to be here today at Port & Terminal Multipurpose Limited
(PTML) for this on-the-spot assessment of the roll-out of B’Odogwu, our new Unified Customs Management System. It is indeed an important achievement and significant milestone in our journey towards modernizing Nigeria’s customs operations and aligning with global best practices.
“This exercise is firmly rooted in the policy thrust of the NCS Management upon my assumption of office which emphasizes the need to consolidate on previous gains while boldly embracing innovative solutions to long-standing challenges. This policy thrust is also aligned with the strategic objectives of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration to make NCS more effective and efficient for the benefit of Nigerians.
” The support for the actualisation of this has been midwifed by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy in the implementation of Several initiatives including today’s roll-out of B’Odogwu that epitomises NCS drive to adapt and adopt cutting-edge technology to enhance our customs processes and procedures.
“It is worth noting that this initiative is fully supported by the legal framework provided in the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Specifically, sections 28 and 29 of the Act empowers the Service to develop, maintain, and employ electronic systems while ensuring transparency and stakeholder consultation.
“B’Odogwu will serve as the cornerstone platform supporting this technological evolution mandated by law,” Adeniyi stated.
On why the PTML is used as a pilot scheme, he said, “Our choice of PTML for this pilot implementation is deliberate and strategic. This is not a random selection or an experimental trial; rather, it is a calculated decision based on PTML’s proven track record as a key vehicle transshipment hub connecting Europe and Africa, PTML has consistently demonstrated operational excellence and maintained robust infrastructure that supports seamless customs operations.
“Several factors influenced our decision to commence here:
a)The exemplary history of smooth interactions between Customs and stakeholders at this terminal.
b)The availability of modern infrastructure provided by the Terminal Operator.
c)The substantial volume of transactions processed through this facility.
d)PTML’s successful track record as a model port for previous revolutionary NCS initiatives.”
The Customs CG, acknowledged that, the project may have technical challenges as anticipated, but assured that there should be no cause for alarm.
“I want to address an important point upfront, yes, we anticipate some
technical challenges during this roll-out phase. This is normal with any new system implementation, and it should not cause alarm. We have positioned a dedicated team of technical experts to provide immediate support and ensure as smooth a transition as possible. This team will be available round-the-clock to address any issues that may arise.
“Let me be clear about the development of B’Odogwu, this platform is the product of direct collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Trade Modernisation Project team. This approach was necessitated by our
experiences with previous service providers who, despite multiple contract extensions, failed to meet their deliverables and effect the expected handover at
the end of their contract period.
“While we would have preferred a different outcome, this situation has strengthened our resolve to develop indigenous solutions that truly serve our needs. It is disappointing when organizations fail to leverage their extended presence in Nigeria to build credible reputations that could benefit them both locally and internationally.
Again the Customs boss assured that B’Odogwu is to facilitate seamless trade by maintaining a robust security system
“Looking ahead, B’Odogwu is our new customs management system that
embodies our vision for a paperless customs administration that facilitates seamless trade while maintaining robust security measures. This system will enhance our ability to: Streamline end-to-end business processes, Provide stakeholders with customized integration capabilities, Support more efficient and intelligent business decisions and Facilitate ease of doing business.
“I am pleased to inform you that B’Odogwu is one of the main deliverables of the Nigeria Customs Service Modernization Project. Since the commencement of pilot activities, we have made significant strides in preparing for this roll-out.
“Different users of the system have been trained to be familiar with the more
simplified interface and the new tools at their disposal. PTML has received upgraded network infrastructure to meet modern demands as we see more complexities in declarations and address the peculiarities in our trade
characteristics. I can confidently say that the era of network downtime is behind us.
“Furthermore, we have successfully tested and are now ready to deploy
integration APIs with our key partners in the trade supply chain, including Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), Shipping Lines, Bonded Warehouses, and partner government agencies. Our stakeholder interactions to sensitize traders and agents on B’Odogwu have yielded overwhelmingly positive feedback. We will continue to engage and listen to their concerns, and I assure you that B’Odogwu is here to stay and will address those concerns effectively.
” Today marks another significant milestone as we commence user creation
on B’Odogwu, which will give users access to their work environments within a
unified platform. The Service is also launching a verification platform for agents, which automates agents’ registration for licenses and permits.
” It is important to note that B’Odogwu will eventually replace the current Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) as the NCS Legacy System. The system has been developed with foresight, acknowledging that the
National Single Window will be coming on board soon, and B’Odogwu will be integrated with it when implemented by the Federal Government.
” B’Odogwu is designed to complement ongoing attempts to leverage
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality technologies in customs administration. This aligns with our commitment to maintaining strong, resilient, open, and prosperous borders that epitomize the legal, policy, and strategic commitments of the Nigeria Customs Service.
” To our stakeholders present here today, I want to emphasize that the NCS
under President Tinubu’s administration is fully committed to serving the best interests of Nigerians. We understand our critical role in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and national security, and we are determined to deliver on these mandates effectively and efficiently”, he assured.
Adeniyi appreciated the support of all stakeholders, “I would like to express my gratitude to: “The Terminal Operators for their continuous support and provision of world-class infrastructure, our dedicated Customs officers who work tirelessly to ensure smooth operations, the Licensed Customs Agents for their cooperation and patience during this transition, the Trade Modernisation Project team for their technical expertise and commitment. All other stakeholders who have contributed to making this pilot possible.
“As we commence this pilot, I urge all stakeholders to embrace this change with optimism and provide constructive feedback that will help us refine and improve the system as your input is crucial to the success of this initiative.
“Let me conclude by reiterating that B’Odogwu represents Nigeria’s gift to
the global Customs community as it showcases our capability to develop homegrown solutions that meet international standards as well as address our unique needs.” The CGC said.
