In a significant move to modernize Nigeria’s trade facilitation processes, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the full integration of all commercial banks for Form ‘M’ openings. This development, which is expected to streamline trade processes, follows the deployment of the homegrown “B’Odogwu” trade facilitation system at Lagos’ Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
The Comptroller-General of the NCS, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, made the announcement, highlighting that this new system marks a critical step towards improving Nigeria’s customs operations and trade efficiency. According to Adeniyi, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has instructed all authorized dealer banks to align with the B’Odogwu platform, ensuring smooth operations for traders seeking to open Form ‘M,’ an essential part of the importation process in Nigeria.
Form ‘M’ is a mandatory document used in the importation process, which ensures that goods being imported into the country are properly documented and valued. The integration of commercial banks into the B’Odogwu system aims to simplify the process of obtaining this document, allowing businesses to complete their transactions quickly and efficiently.
This latest step in trade modernization follows the successful pilot deployment of the B’Odogwu system at the Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command in 2024. After proving effective at PTML, the system is now being expanded to the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, two of Nigeria’s busiest entry points for imports.
Adeniyi emphasized that the B’Odogwu system is a Nigerian solution to challenges faced in the past by the previous customs management system, the Nigerian Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS) II. The B’Odogwu system was designed to replace NICIS II and address delays and inefficiencies that had long plagued customs operations in Nigeria.
The successful integration of commercial banks into the B’Odogwu system is expected to provide several benefits. The system will make trade documentation processes faster and more accurate, reducing the time spent by importers in dealing with customs paperwork. Additionally, it is anticipated to help in improving revenue collection for the government by blocking potential revenue leakages that have previously been difficult to monitor.
Speaking on the development, Adeniyi noted that the new system was a result of a break from previous frustrations with NICIS II. To create a more efficient and user-friendly system, the NCS engaged TMP Limited, a new service provider, to develop B’Odogwu. Adeniyi explained that the decision to move away from NICIS II was born out of the need to address the delays and frustrations traders and customs officers had faced for years.
The name “B’Odogwu” itself reflects the system’s purpose and origin. The term is Nigerian in nature, with “B” standing for “Border” and “Odogwu” meaning strength and leadership. Adeniyi shared that the name embodies the strength and leadership Nigeria aims to showcase in global trade facilitation.
“This is a homegrown system,” Adeniyi said, “one that takes into account all the frustrations we’ve had in the past. We wanted to develop a system that would address these issues once and for all. The new system is designed to lead the way in transforming trade operations in Nigeria.”
The deployment of B’Odogwu is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of Nigeria’s customs services and position the country as a leader in the global customs community. By improving efficiency in trade transactions and reducing delays at the ports, Nigeria is poised to see an increase in its trade volumes and more efficient revenue collection.
The NCS has also been focusing on upgrading the capacity of its personnel and stakeholders to ensure the smooth implementation of the B’Odogwu system. Apapa Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, emphasized the readiness of his command to take the next step in customs modernization. He noted that as one of the country’s major ports, Apapa is fully prepared to handle the increased demand and operational efficiency that B’Odogwu promises.
Extensive training has been conducted for customs officers and stakeholders, ensuring that everyone involved in the trade process is familiar with the new system. Positive feedback has already been received from stakeholders, indicating that the B’Odogwu system is being embraced across the board.
Adeniyi took the opportunity to praise his officers, stating that under his leadership, the NCS has become one of the fastest developing customs administrations in Africa. With the rollout of B’Odogwu, Nigeria is expected to continue to lead the way in transforming its customs processes.
The full integration of commercial banks into the B’Odogwu system also aligns with the broader vision of customs reform under the current leadership. The NCS is working closely with the Central Bank and other stakeholders to ensure that the system’s rollout is as smooth as possible and that traders benefit from a more seamless, reliable customs process.
The introduction of B’Odogwu and the integration of commercial banks into the system comes at a crucial time for Nigeria’s trade sector. As the country works to improve its position in the global market, it is essential to modernize trade-related processes and eliminate inefficiencies that have held back growth.
The B’Odogwu system is just one of many initiatives that the Nigeria Customs Service is undertaking as part of its transformation agenda. The system’s expansion to major ports like Apapa and Tin Can Island is seen as a positive step towards ensuring that Nigeria remains competitive in global trade.
With the full integration of commercial banks and the introduction of B’Odogwu, traders and businesses are expected to see a marked improvement in the efficiency and ease of doing business in Nigeria’s ports. As the country continues to modernize its customs processes, Nigeria is set to become a more attractive destination for international trade, which could bring long-term economic benefits for the nation.
