Customs Committed to Making B’Odogwu Benchmark for Digital Trade Facilitation – CGC Adeniyi
The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Service‘s commitment to ensuring that B’Odogwu remains a transparent and efficient digital trade facilitation platform.
CGC Adeniyi assured stakeholders that ongoing improvements will be implemented following their feedback on the B’Odogwu clearance system.
He made these remarks during a town hall meeting with stakeholders themed “Enhancing Trade Compliance and System Optimisation Through Stakeholder Engagement”, held in Lagos on Monday, July 21, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Adeniyi noted that the town hall was a product of a series of consultations led by the support team, the ICT/Modernisation Department, and himself over the past two weeks.
“It’s important we create this platform to allow you to share your concerns with us and describe your experience using B’Odogwu,” he said, while acknowledging reports of challenges faced by users.
He stated that the feedback received has not been entirely negative, “We’ve received a number of positive responses from stakeholders, including freight forwarders and agents.”
The CGC reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service‘s vision to make B’Odogwu a benchmark for digital trade facilitation, especially as Nigeria currently chairs the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
“Our goal is to make B’Odogwu the reference point in trade facilitation. Now that Nigeria holds the WCO Chairmanship, we want to show the world we can create and manage a home-grown system,” he affirmed.
Addressing concerns about the newly introduced 4% Free On Board (FOB), Adeniyi clarified that it will replace multiple existing levies.
“Once the 4% FOB takes effect, the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) will cease automatically. In addition, the 7% cost of collection currently charged will also be completely removed.
“Under the new Act, the 4% FOB is paid upfront—and that’s it. Thereafter, 100% of the revenue generated by Customs will go into the Federation Account. It’s a win-win for everyone,” he explained.
In her welcome address, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of ICT/Modernisation, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, highlighted the strategic value of stakeholder collaboration.
“This town hall is not just another event; it’s a vital platform to engage our valued trade partners on the B’Odogwu Clearance System,” DCG Adeola said.
She emphasised that B’Odogwu is a locally developed project and commended stakeholders for their support in making it a national success story.
The Chairman of Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL), Saleh Ahmadu, who also spoke at the event, assured participants of the initiative’s long-term benefits.
“As we transition into a 21st-century Customs Service, TMPL is committed to investing in the right technology, people, and services. This project will significantly enhance the experience of all users in the trade value chain,” Ahmadu remarked.
The town hall featured panel sessions on “Overcoming Common Importer Challenges on B’Odogwu” and “Enhancing Transparency, Speed and Revenue Through Full Participation.”
Stakeholders commended the efficiencies introduced by B’Odogwu, however, they also raised concerns about system migration, delays in amendment processing from banks, and related issues.
The gathering concluded with a question-and-answer session to clarify key emerging matters.
