The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has opened talks with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to address concerns over the rollout of the Unified Customs Management System, known as B’Odogwu.
The meeting, held on Monday, August 19, 2025, at Customs headquarters in Abuja, brought together the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the Executive Secretary of the Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima.
The talks followed complaints from freight forwarders and licensed Customs agents who reported delays, demurrage, and system integration challenges since the introduction of the platform. Dr. Ukeyima, presenting industry feedback, said freight operators were facing hurdles with documentation and port logistics, warning that financial losses could mount if issues were not quickly resolved.
In response, the Customs boss reaffirmed that B’Odogwu is a key pillar of the Service’s modernisation programme aimed at creating a transparent, technology-driven, and globally competitive clearance process. He admitted the rollout had come with teething problems but assured that they would be tackled through phased improvements, structured dialogue, and system upgrades.
Adeniyi stressed that the indigenous platform was designed to cut clearance times, reduce costs, boost compliance, and raise government revenue. He also noted that consultations with other industry players, including shipping lines and terminal operators, would continue to align processes and resolve emerging concerns.
Both agencies agreed that while reforms of this scale typically face transitional issues, efforts are underway to minimise disruptions and shield operators from excessive charges such as demurrage.
Customs called on stakeholders to support the reform process, provide constructive feedback, and partner with the Service to build a modern trade ecosystem that strengthens efficiency and national competitiveness.
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