The Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), also referred to as the B’Odogwu system, will be implemented at the Tin-Can Island Port in Lagos, and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Customs Command, has promised importers and other port users that cargo clearance will be smooth.
The introduction of the B’Odogwu system at the Ports & Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML) has just begun its experimental phase.
Speaking yesterday at the Command’s World Customs Day celebration in Lagos, Area Controller Frank Onyeka stated that the B’Odogwu’s teething problems from its pilot phase at PTML have been fixed and the system will improve trade facilitation at the port.
What he said: “I stand before you today on this important occasion of International Customs Day 2025 with a great sense of pride and responsibility.
According to him, the topic for this year, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” perfectly reflects the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the core of our job at the Tin-can Island Command.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), he continued, “has tasked us with not just making promises but translating our commitments into concrete, measurable actions.” This call to action highlights the critical role that customs plays in promoting legal trade facilitation, maintaining border security, obtaining government income, and promoting long-term economic growth.
Let me take this opportunity to emphasize the progress we have accomplished and the vision that motivates us to continue pursuing our mission.
“Efficiency in Trade Facilitation: At Tincan Island Command, we have used creative strategies to decrease delays, simplify procedures, and improve the ease of conducting business. Trade facilitation continues to be a fundamental aspect of our job.
With the upcoming implementation of the Nigeria Customs Unified Customs Management System, or B’Odogwu, we have automated important processes, guaranteeing transparency and lowering the need for human intervention. Combining cutting-edge technology like blockchain, e-customs platforms, and artificial intelligence has accelerated cargo clearance while simultaneously reaffirming our dedication to adhering to international best practices, as demonstrated by the pilot command PTML.
The Command has made stakeholder interaction a priority as a crucial facilitator of efficiency, Onyeka added. Partnerships with shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and government organizations have allowed us to create a cooperative ecosystem that facilitates smooth operations.
The Area Controller stated that these initiatives “have helped Nigeria’s ranking in the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), and the Ease of Doing Business assessments to improve.”
“As we commemorate International Customs Day, let us keep in mind that the lives of millions of people both domestically and internationally are profoundly impacted by the job we do.
We are fulfilling our mandate and fostering a more promising future for our country and the global economy by delivering on our pledges to efficiency, security, and prosperity.
“To my distinguished colleagues, I implore you to follow the Comptroller General’s policy thrust, which calls for cooperation, consolidation, and innovation in service delivery.
“I want to thank our stakeholders for their unwavering support and collaboration, which are still crucial to our success.”
Zone “A,” the foundation of the Nigeria Customs Service, is a vital economic gateway for Nigeria, encapsulating the strategic significance of the Service in linking Nigeria with international markets, according to Zone A Coordinator ACG Charles Orbih’s speech. As a result, we must do it correctly.
We appeal to our respected leaders and decision-makers to back our vision. You must make a deliberate investment in our people resources, technology, and infrastructure.
“The Nigeria Customs Service’s empowerment directly enhances the country’s economic stability, security, and ability to compete internationally.
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Today, we honor our exceptional officers and stakeholders who have made tremendous contributions to furthering the purpose of our Service. Individuals whose ingenuity has improved revenue collection, promoted trade, and safeguarded our country’s economic interests.
In honor of this day, I encourage all Customs officers to follow our concept all year long. Let’s show our dedication by providing dependable, imaginative, and competent service. In every encounter, procedure, and choice we make, we must advance this idea.
According to Orbih, together, our efforts “will determine Nigeria’s economic competitiveness globally and national security.”
