- Compt. Onyeka
The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully processed its first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) using the indigenously developed B’Odogwu platform.
The development marked a significant step in trade facilitation, transparency and operational efficiency at one of the country’s busiest seaports.
The Customs Area Controller, Compt. Frank Onyeka, said the successful deployment and processing of the inaugural SGD on the B’Odogwu platform reflect the NCS’ ongoing commitment to digital transformation, in line with the federal government’s drive to enhance ease of doing business.
“This achievement demonstrates our readiness to embrace technology that streamlines cargo clearance procedures, reduces dwell time, and improves service delivery,” a statement from the Command Public Relations Officer, Oscar Ivara, cited Compt. Onyeka to say.
“The B’Odogwu platform has shown great promise, and we are proud to be pioneers in its implementation.”
He further disclosed that the command has achieved 100 per cent network infrastructure coverage across all terminals and the command’s headquarters. He added that the problem of network failure has now become a thing of the past, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient processing of cargo and trade documentation.
More so, Compt. Onyeka explained that the B’Odogwu platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing customs systems, providing a user-friendly interface for declarants, brokers and other stakeholders.
The platform, he noted, enhances cargo tracking, document processing and compliance management in real-time, reducing manual bottlenecks and opportunities for delays.
Meanwhile, Onyeka disclosed that the launch was preceded by a series of extensive training sessions and stakeholder engagements organised by the command, in collaboration with system developers.
The capacity-building initiatives involved key industry participants, including shipping lines, customs licensed agents, terminal operators and customs officers, towards ensuring a seamless adoption of the new platform, which covered system navigation, document processing, cargo tracking and compliance protocols.
Meanwhile, industry stakeholders, including SteveJosh Logistics International Limited, which declaration was the first to be captured on the new platform, welcomed the innovation, expressing optimism that it will reduce transaction costs and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.
