Efficient Trade: Customs Sensitizes Stakeholders on B’Odogwu

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to modernize trade processes by engaging stakeholders in a sensitization program on the B’Odogwu clearance system.

The initiative is a crucial component of the ongoing e-Customs modernization project.

Held on Thursday, the session brought together representatives from government agencies, financial institutions, and trade facilitators to ensure smooth adoption and collaboration in implementing the system.

Deputy Comptroller-General of ICT Modernization, Kikelomo Adeola, described B’Odogwu as a national initiative aimed at enhancing trade efficiency.

“If you want to move fast, go alone, but if you want to move far, move together. This project is a historic milestone for Nigeria’s trade environment,” she said.

Assistant Comptroller of ICT, Omolara Adedeji, explained the system’s role within the broader e-Customs project, which operates under a 20-year concession agreement with the Trade Modernization Project (TMP).

She assured stakeholders that the transition to digital processes would be seamless and globally competitive.

TMP representative Ahmad Orushola highlighted the project’s investment in capacity building, emphasizing that trained Customs officers, banks, freight forwarders, and clearing agents will drive trade efficiency.

“Beyond technology, we are investing in people,” he said.

Representing the Minister of Finance, Ali Mohammed, Director of Home Finance, commended the NCS for its proactive approach, assuring full government support.

Under the leadership of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to innovation, efficiency, and transparency, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a regional trade hub through the implementation of B’Odogwu.