The Customs Area Controller of Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, has announced significant progress with the new customs trading platform, B’Odogwu. Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday,
Daniyan disclosed that the command recorded its highest-ever monthly revenue of ₦44.9 billion in November 2024, attributed to the platform’s successful implementation during its pilot phase.
He noted that over five banks are currently integrated into the platform, with arrangements finalized to onboard 17 additional banks on the Interswitch payment platform.
Discussions with these banks are ongoing and expected to be concluded by Thursday.
Addressing Concerns Over Vessel Clearance
Daniyan dismissed reports suggesting delays in clearing vessels at the PTML berth due to issues with B’Odogwu.
He confirmed that stakeholders had met earlier in the week to address concerns raised by clearing agents.
During the meeting, agents were urged to engage the implementation team for further assistance in resolving challenges.
To ensure trade facilitation, the command has adopted temporary manual processing methods for cargoes and partnered with terminal operators to assist users already registered on the platform.
Daniyan emphasized that agents claiming difficulties with the platform are mostly unregistered and urged them to complete their registration.
Transition From NICIS II
Daniyan firmly stated that the B’Odogwu platform represents the future of customs operations at PTML, effectively replacing the older NICIS II system.
He highlighted the platform as a “Nigerian innovation” and appealed for national support, saying, “We are weaning our baby from a foreign mother. We urge Nigerians to embrace and support it.”
While acknowledging some initial challenges, Daniyan assured stakeholders that the implementation team is addressing them as they arise.
He reiterated that PTML Customs is committed to achieving operational excellence with the platform before extending its use to Tin Can Island and other ports.
Enhanced Cargo Turnaround Time
According to Daniyan, the command continues to maintain a two-hour turnaround time for properly declared RoRo cargo, provided there is compliance from declarants.
However, he emphasized that national security and revenue collection remain top priorities over trade facilitation.
November Statistics
The CAC revealed that as of November, 292 bills of lading have been captured, while 375 remain pending.
Additionally, over 98 payments have been successfully processed on the B’Odogwu platform, with more banks set to join shortly.
Daniyan concluded by reaffirming the service’s commitment to resolving all stakeholder concerns and ensuring smooth operations under the new platform, positioning it as a significant step forward in modernizing customs processes in Nigeria.
