NAGAFF Calls for Patience, Collaboration as Nigeria Customs Pilots B’Odogwu Trade Modernisation Software
In a bid to revolutionise the trade documentation and clearance process in Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the pilot phase of the Bodogwu trade modernisation software.
This innovative system, designed locally by Nigerians, aims to streamline customs operations and replace the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS).
However, concerns have been raised about challenges stemming from human resistance and inadequate bank integration.
The founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr B.O. Aniebonam, expressed optimism about the Bodogwu concept, describing it as a transformative step towards improving trade facilitation, enhancing customs control, and increasing revenue collection.
Speaking in a press statement, Dr Aniebonam acknowledged that initial implementation challenges were inevitable but called for patience and cooperation among stakeholders.
Dr Aniebonam underscored the importance of the Bodogwu initiative as part of the federal government’s renewed hope agenda.
He noted that this agenda aims to empower Nigerians to develop and utilise local solutions, moving away from dependency on foreign systems. “The era of creating ‘food for the boys’ must be jettisoned,” he emphasised, urging stakeholders to embrace local content and patriotic efforts.
Despite its potential, the Bodogwu system has faced hurdles, particularly with payment processing at banks.
Many banks, especially those connected through Interswitch, lack seamless integration with the platform, resulting in delays and confusion at branch levels.
Dr Aniebonam stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, urging banks to integrate their systems fully and sensitise their desk officers on Bodogwu’s operations.
The pilot phase at the Port and Terminal Management Limited (PTML) has recorded notable progress.
Between December 4 and December 9, 2024, two vessel manifests involving 1,825 bills of lading and 2,210 containers were processed through the Bodogwu system.
By December 11, a total of 1,007 Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) had been processed, with some payments completed and goods selected for examination.
However, the process has been hampered by operational delays, including high demurrage charges from terminal operators.
Dr Aniebonam called on the NCS management at PTML to negotiate a two-month demurrage waiver to accommodate the transitional period and allow banks to align their systems effectively.
NAGAFF urged all stakeholders to prioritise compliance with federal import and export regulations to ensure seamless customs operations.
Dr Aniebonam highlighted the need for freight agents to make honest declarations, stressing that integrity and patriotism are critical to the system’s success.
He also called on the NCS to use its enforcement powers to arrest and prosecute individuals obstructing the lawful duties of customs officers, thereby safeguarding the Bodogwu initiative.
“The renewed hope agenda must be realised for the greater good,” he stated, encouraging Nigerians to support the system.
While acknowledging the teething issues with Bodogwu, Dr Aniebonam likened the initiative to the early struggles of space exploration, emphasising that setbacks should not deter progress.
He reiterated NAGAFF’s commitment to supporting the NCS in achieving its vision of a more efficient and locally driven customs operation.
