Business News of Friday, 18 July 2025

Source: www.mynigeria.com

B’Odogwu drives 34.1% revenue surge for customs at PTML command

Customs officers Customs officers

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Port and Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Command has recorded an impressive 34.1% increase in revenue for the first half of 2025, collecting a total of ₦204,725,634,459.55. This represents a ₦52 billion rise compared to the ₦152,648,517,532.05 collected during the same period in 2024.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, made the announcement during a media briefing held at the Command in Lagos on Wednesday, 16 July 2025.

He attributed the performance boost to the successful implementation of the B’Odogwu digital platform, which he described as a transformative tool in trade facilitation and revenue collection.

Despite initial challenges encountered while utilising the B'odogwu platform, there have been improvements, with over 90% stakeholder compliance. The command generated ₦301.8 billion from the B'Odogwu platform since its rollout on 11 October 2024," the CAC stated.

According to Comptroller Daniyan, the platform, developed as part of the Customs modernisation efforts, has streamlined processes, improved transparency, and accelerated cargo clearance. "The command holds the number one record of fastest cargo clearance time of two hours in line with the 'Time Release Study' (TRS). Only declarations made with integrity can enjoy the benefits of faster clearance."

Comptroller Daniyan also reported a notable increase in cargo activity, stating that between January and June 2025, the Command received 52 vessels, handled 13,431 containers, and processed 30,400 assessments.

He noted that ships from the Far East and China have joined those from Europe and America in calling at the port.

Speaking further, the Area Controller stated that, as the designated pilot area for B’Odogwu’s deployment, the PTML Command has intensified training for officers and customs agents to ensure smooth adoption and optimal use of the platform.

"The practical hands-on sessions have paid off, as most of our stakeholders are knowledgeable about the system and its workings. These training sessions are in batches and still ongoing to ensure everyone is carried along", he said.

The CAC reassured that while the Command prioritises trade facilitation, enforcement operations and anti-smuggling efforts remain uncompromised.

He expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for entrusting the PTML Command with the initial rollout of B’Odogwu, while also congratulating him on his recent election as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, describing it as a proud moment for Nigeria.