Apapa customs skyrockets revenue by N161bn with B’Odogwu

The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded an impressive revenue collection of N161 billion within just three weeks, thanks to the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System, popularly known as the B’Odogwu platform.

Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) at Apapa, disclosed this during a recent stakeholder engagement session, emphasizing the transformative potential of the new ICT-driven system.

According to Olomu, the B’Odogwu system represents a major leap in Nigeria’s trade facilitation capabilities, promising faster clearance times and higher transparency for importers, freight forwarders, and licensed customs agents.

“Between August 1 and 22, 2025, the Apapa Command collected N161 billion using the B’Odogwu system,” Olomu said.

“This figure underscores the efficiency and reliability of our homegrown ICT platform, and stakeholders’ patience during the initial rollout phase is beginning to yield tangible results.”

The CAC highlighted that the B’Odogwu platform surpasses previous ICT systems deployed by the NCS in both functionality and scalability.

He further reassured stakeholders that the dedicated ICT department continues to work tirelessly to ensure a permanent resolution to all operational challenges, including network downtimes experienced during transactions.

Apapa Port, being one of Nigeria’s busiest maritime gateways, is strategically vital for revenue generation and trade facilitation.

Olomu stressed that the Command maintains continuous engagement with the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) and terminal operators to address operational bottlenecks and minimize demurrage costs for importers.

“Dialogue with sister agencies ensures that we resolve issues collaboratively and keep trade flowing smoothly,” he added.

Charles Orbih, Zonal Coordinator in charge of Zone A, also lauded stakeholders for their patience and support during the platform’s implementation.

“Their confidence in the NCS’s ability to resolve network glitches demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s homegrown ICT initiatives,” Orbih said.

He highlighted ongoing efforts by the Customs General Council (CGC) to liaise with government agencies and terminal operators to implement demurrage waivers where necessary, further easing the operational burden on importers.

The B’Odogwu system, part of the NCS’s broader digital transformation agenda, aims to automate and streamline customs operations across the country.

It integrates cargo tracking, electronic documentation, and payment processes, thereby reducing the risk of revenue leakage and corruption.

Early results at Apapa have shown a significant improvement in processing times, allowing the command to clear larger volumes of cargo more efficiently.

Experts in the maritime and trade sectors believe that the platform could revolutionize Nigeria’s import-export landscape.

Anozie Egole, Chief Correspondent covering maritime affairs, notes that the revenue surge demonstrates the potential of ICT innovations in government service delivery.

“This N161 billion collection within three weeks is a clear testament to how technology can enhance operational efficiency and boost government revenue when implemented effectively,” Egole said.

Analysts also anticipate that as the B’Odogwu system matures, revenue collection at other ports may see similar growth.

The Nigerian Customs Service plans to expand the platform’s deployment nationwide, ensuring uniform standards and increased compliance across all commands.

While the revenue milestone is a remarkable achievement, NCS officials continue to focus on stakeholder education and system optimization.

Regular workshops, training sessions, and feedback mechanisms are being instituted to ensure that importers and freight operators can fully leverage the system’s capabilities.

Comptroller Olomu concluded by reiterating the importance of stakeholder collaboration in sustaining the success of the B’Odogwu platform.

“Our goal is to facilitate trade, enhance compliance, and maximize revenue for national development.

With continued support and engagement, Apapa Command is set to reach even higher milestones,” he affirmed.

With the B’Odogwu system now proving its effectiveness, Apapa Customs stands as a benchmark for ICT-driven trade facilitation in Nigeria, offering a model for other commands to emulate.