B’Odogwu: Tin Can Customs Record First Declaration

…As Onyeka Affirms Commitment To Transparent And Efficient Cargo Operations

BY FUNMI ALUKO

In a landmark development for Nigeria’s maritime sector, 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 Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka  who disclosed the development said the event, which took place on Monday, May 12, 2025, marked a significant step in trade facilitation, transparency, and operational efficiency.

Speaking through SC OE IVARA,  the Command Public Relations Officer, Onyeka explained that the successful deployment and processing of the inaugural SGD on the B’Odogwu platform reflect the Customs Service’s 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. The B’Odogwu platform has shown great promise, and we are proud to be pioneers in its implementation.”

Comptroller Onyeka further also disclosed that the Command has achieved 100% network infrastructure coverage across all its terminals and within the headquarters. This is even as he declared that the problem of network failure is now a thing of the past, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient processing of cargo and trade documentation.

According to him, the B’Odogwu platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Customs systems, providing a user-friendly interface for declarants, brokers, and other stakeholders. It enhances cargo tracking, document processing, and compliance management in real-time, reducing manual bottlenecks and opportunities for delays, he said.

Giving a background account of the prevailing processes, Onyeka explained that the launch was preceded by a series of extensive training sessions and stakeholder engagements organized by the Command, in collaboration with system developers. He said key industry participants—including shipping lines, customs licensed agents, terminal operators, and customs officers—took part in these capacity-building initiatives.

“The training sessions were designed to ensure the seamless adoption of the new platform and covered critical areas such as system navigation, document processing, cargo tracking, and compliance protocols.”

Industry stakeholders, including  SteveJosh Logistics International limited whose declaration was the first to be captured on the new platform, welcomed the innovation, expressing optimism that the new platform will reduce transaction costs and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.

The Tincan Island Port Command remains committed to embracing technological advancements that support the nation’s economic growth and international trade agenda.