The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully issued the first Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under the newly introduced B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System. The Service has since sought ways to leverage technology to streamline its operations and facilitate smoother trade processes in Nigeria.
The milestone follows recent discussions between Bashir Adeniyi, the comptroller-general of customs (CGC), Olayemi Cardoso, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Adeniyi had sought the help of the apex bank to fast-track the integration of Nigerian commercial banks into the B’Odogwu system and automate exchange rate communication to improve duty collection, to which the governor assented.
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B’Odogwu, an indigenous replacement for the previous Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II), was developed for importers clearing of goods into the country and exporters transporting goods to foreign buyers.
The system underwent a successful pilot phase at Port and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) Customs Area Command after rounds of engagement with stakeholders, including government agencies, to ensure a smooth transition.
The issuance of the first PAAR under B’Odogwu marks the commencement of a nationwide rollout that could help reduce delays and improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria, making it more attractive to investors and reducing friction in cross-border trade.
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The NCS says it will ensure the complete integration of all financial institutions, including Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), to enable seamless foreign exchange transactions and trade-related payments.
In his statement, the CGC appreciated all stakeholders for their support throughout the process and urged the trading community to embrace the B’Odogwu platform with the benefits it brings for international trade relations.
