The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has assured stakeholders that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is committed to a transparent and efficient rollout of the B’Odogwu clearance platform.
Adeniyi made this assurance during a town hall meeting with stakeholders in Lagos, themed “Enhancing Trade Compliance and System Optimisation Through Stakeholder Engagement.”
The CGC acknowledged reports of challenges with the platform but noted that feedback has not been entirely negative.
He said some stakeholders, including freight forwarders and agents, have provided positive responses.
Adeniyi reiterated the Service’s vision to make B’Odogwu a benchmark for digital trade facilitation, especially since Nigeria currently chairs the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
He addressed concerns surrounding the newly introduced 4% Free On Board (FOB) charge, clarifying that it will replace multiple existing levies.
He further explained that once the 4% FOB takes effect, the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) and the 7% cost of collection will be removed.
The CGC noted that the new system will ensure that 100% of revenue generated by Customs goes into the Federation Account.
The Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of ICT/Modernisation, DCG Kikelomo Adeola, underscored the strategic value of stakeholder collaboration.
She emphasized that B’Odogwu is a locally developed project and praised stakeholders for their support in making it a national success story.
The Chairman of Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL), Saleh Ahmadu, assured participants of the initiative’s long-term benefits.
He noted that the project will significantly enhance the experience of all users in the trade value chain.
The town hall featured panel sessions on overcoming common importer challenges and enhancing transparency, speed, and revenue through full participation.
Stakeholders commended the efficiencies introduced by B’Odogwu but also raised concerns about system migration, amendment delays from banks, and related issues.
A robust question-and-answer session wrapped up the event, clarifying key emerging matters.
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