The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant stride in its efforts to modernize and streamline trade operations by issuing the first Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under the newly introduced B’Odogwu system, part of its Unified Customs Management System. This development, announced by the NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada (ACP), marks a crucial milestone in the service’s ongoing commitment to technology-driven trade reforms.
According to Maiwada, this achievement comes shortly after strategic discussions between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso. Both institutions reaffirmed their dedication to improving trade processes, enhancing revenue collection, and fostering better financial integration within the country.
The B’Odogwu system is an indigenous replacement for the previously used Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II). The new system is designed to modernize customs operations, making trade documentation more efficient and strengthening collaboration between agencies involved in trade facilitation. The system was first rolled out during a pilot phase at the Port and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) Customs Area Command, with active engagement from stakeholders, including various government bodies, to ensure a smooth transition.
Maiwada emphasized that the issuance of the first PAAR under the B’Odogwu system marks the beginning of its nationwide implementation. This rollout is aimed at simplifying customs procedures, improving efficiency, and facilitating trade across Nigeria. The NCS is also working to ensure that all necessary integrations with financial institutions, including Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), are completed to enable seamless foreign exchange transactions and payments related to trade.
Under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adeniyi, the NCS has expressed its appreciation for the support received from all stakeholders. The Service also urged the trading community to embrace the B’Odogwu platform, promising a more efficient, transparent, and technology-driven approach to customs processes. The introduction of this system is poised to play a transformative role in the country’s trade operations, aligning with global standards while fostering economic growth and development.
