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Customs plans to integrate B’ Odogwu with National Single Window for transparency , operational efficiency

– eyes less than 48- hour cargo clearance time at port.

Funso OLOJO 
As the Customs’ trade modernisation platform, B’ Odogwu, is gradually gaining momentum among the customs brokers and other stakeholders, the Nigeria customs service said it was making preparation to integrate the indigenous platform with the National Single window.
This is aimed at making the customs operations transparent where all the stakeholders, including  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would be able to clearly see and monitor goods clearance procedures at the Ports.
The Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs(DCG) Kikelomo Adeola, Head of Customs Information Communications(ICT) and modernisation project make this known while interacting with terminal operators at Apapa customs command.
DCG Adeola, who had so far held series of discussions with freight forwarders, shipping companies and terminal operators to enlighten them on the launch of B’ Odogwu in Apapa and Tin Can Island commands of the customs, said integrating the indigenous platform with National Single Window is what the customs desires and ready to do because everyone will see what the customs and other agencies are doing.
” Even the president will be looking at it” she declared.
She said the users of this platform have nothing to worry about as the new concept,  which was wholly conceptualized, developed and deployed locally, is meant to simplify clearing process in the most transparent manner.
DCG Adeola, who was joined in the interactive session by the Area Controller of the Tin Can Island ports, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, the representative of Area Controller of Apapa customs command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Ahmed Ogunsola and Dr Jummai Umar of Trade Modernisation Project Limited, assured the apprehensive stakeholders that Customs training team will be attached to the two commands where they will engage stakeholders in an intensive training  before the new concept is deployed.
According to DCG Adeola, the modernisation indigenous platform is a  bold and transformational concept aimed at addressing inefficiencies, improving transparency, and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in global trade.
 She stated that the initiative is built on cutting-edge technology designed to streamline processes and ensure smoother operations across ports and terminals.
“This project is not just about deploying technology; it’s about creating a robust system that enhances trade facilitation and revenue generation.
“We are addressing critical issues such as smuggling, administrative bottlenecks, and inadequate monitoring mechanisms,” DCG Adeola noted.
She noted that the new concept, when it was first introduced at the PTML command in October, 2024, has gone through some transformational stages with some teething problems which the service has resolved.
Adeola believed that before the automated platform is deployed at the Tin Can and Apapa customs commands, all the identified gaps at the pilot stage would have been closed.
She said the objective of the service is to ensure that goods are cleared in less than 24 hours by the time the indigenous platform is fully deployed.
However, the Customs chief allayed the fears of some stakeholders who expressed worries over possible technical glitch or downtime.
 
Adeola disclosed that there was no single incident of downtime since October,2024 when the pilot scheme of the platform was launched at the PTML.
 
She further declared that the training programmes for the stakeholders have commenced and the customs would ensure that about 90 percent of stakeholders are well grounded in its operations before it takes off at both the Tin Can and Apapa customs commands.
 
Adeola further  assured the inquisitive stakeholders that 20 banks have so far been linked with B’ Odogwu platform, saying more are going to be added as times goes on.
 
She however warned them not to pay to the non- compliant banks so their goods would not be trapped.
She also asked them to make diligent inquiry about the banks which are linked with the indigenous platform to avoid unpleasant situation.
 
 Dr. Jummai Zainab Umar-Ajijola, Managing Director of the Trade Modernization Project Limited,  credited the success of the modernization initiative to strong coordination between the NCS and its partners.

“The partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Trade Modernization Project Limited has been instrumental in driving this initiative forward.

She praised the efforts, commitment and resilience Comptroller-General of Customs , Adewale Adeniyi and DCG Adeola for the modest success the new concept has so far recorded.

Dr Ajijola emphasized that B’Odogwu; the newly introduced unified customs system, represents “strength and resilience” and is a homegrown solution that positions Nigeria as a leader in trade facilitation.

“Our goal is not just to modernize customs operations in Nigeria but to create a model that will be adopted across Africa and beyond,” she added

She disclosed that stakeholders are the core components of the project which, if well harnessed, would drive the success of the concept.

” That is why our management at the Trade Modernisation Project Limited emphasized the importance of stakeholders in this new concept and we believe that if we can achieve 80 per

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Customs

Relief as Customs grants January 31st, 2026 extension for fast track operators to migrate to AEO

Funso Olojo
The Nigeria Customs Service has now extended the earlier December 31st, 2025 deadline for the migration of importers from fast track scheme to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) to January 31st, 2026.
The extension, according to the Customs Authority, is meant to absorb more fast track operators into the AEO programme, deepen trade facilitation, secure supply chain and strengthen compliance in line with global standards.
As a result of the extension, Customs high command advised all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who are yet to complete their migration are to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.
“The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations.
” For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders may reach the dedicated helpdesk via aeo@customs.gov.ng.
“Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.
The AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.
” The extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders.
“This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
To further support stakeholders and sustain ongoing sensitisation efforts, the Service will convene another comprehensive Stakeholders Engagement Forum to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns.
 The forum is scheduled for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs.
“Participants will have the opportunity to interact with AEO implementation teams and obtain detailed information on programme requirements, benefits, and operational modalities.
“The NCS urges all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period, participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.
” This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance with applicable regulations but also enhances the supply chain’s effectiveness and sustainability, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties.
“The Service remains committed to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, protecting national revenue, and promoting a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate business” the agency declared.
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Customs

Again, Customs, NDLEA Collabo intercepts 2,374 packages of Canadian Loud at Apapa Port

– Comptroller Oshoba warns illicit traders against daring resolve of Customs Officers at Yuletide season 
Funso OLOJO 
For the second times in a week,  the impregnable wall of surveillance mounted by the combination of the Apapa Customs and the  National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against the exit of  illicit drugs from Apapa Port has interdicted a 20- foot container marked FCIU 6369526 laden with 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags with a  total weight of 1,187kg.
This interception, the product of a credible intelligence, came barely 5 days both agencies uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel.
The latest seizure was suspected to be
Canadian Loud, an expensive strain of cannabis concealed inside an imported vehicles.
 Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA.
A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet
Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.
 ” Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.
 “No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade.
“While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.
 ” Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law.
“Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.
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Customs

Comptroller Aliyu vows to sustain onslaught on smugglers as he assumes duties at FOU A

Funso OLOJO 
Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, the new controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU ) A of the Nigeria Customs Service, has expressed his determination to sustain the ongoing stranglehold on smugglers and other illicit traders within the Zone
Comptroller Aliu make this pledge on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 when he assumed duties as the helmsman of the Zone A anti- smuggling unit.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for the opportunity to serve in the unit.
The new controller also commended outgoing Controller of the Unit, Muhammed Shuaibu, who has been elevated to an Assistant Comptroller General for his outstanding service, achievement and pledged to consolidate on them for greater success.
“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes.
“The FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance,  suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation.
” I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come from this position especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos and its environment.
“However, I am confident that with the cooperation and professionalism of the gallant officers and men of this command , we will continue to fulfill this mandate diligently.”
Aliyu, who until his new disposition, was the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/ Osun Command, outlined other key areas of focus that will guide the unit under his watch to include professional conduct and discipline among officers, stakeholders engagement as well as capacity building and welfare of officers.
He said, “High standards of ethics, discipline and integrity as well as accountability will remain non-negotiable.
” Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the service.
“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies ,community leaders and the trading public to strengthen border security and facilitate lawful trade.
“The motivation and welfare of officers will be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”
Aliyu assured stakeholders and the trading public that justice, equity and fairness will guide the unit’s actions at all times.
He added that the unit’s operations under his watch would be underpinned by three cardinal objectives including management change, compliance management, and reputation management.
He called on all officers and stakeholders to join hands with him in this new role, promising to operate an open door policy.
Earlier, in his valedictory speech,  outgoing Controller, ACG Shuaibu, highlighted the unit’s major successes during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025.
He stated that the unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions, comprising 761 seized items with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.
Some of the notable seizures listed included: 23,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailers).
 98 ‘tokunbo’vehicles, 2,350 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Others are 15 assorted rifles and 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 4 cylinders of Russian-made explosives (each weighing 50kg), seizure of $30,000 and 110 CFA, totaling N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.
Additionally, he said the unit within the review period arrested 38 suspects and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion to NAFDAC, among other items.
Beyond enforcement, ACG Shuaibu stated that the unit recovered a total sum of N419,202,458.85 through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalues, ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.
He attributed the successes to the unwavering support of stakeholders and dedicated officers, urging them to extend the same level of cooperation to Comptroller Aliu.
“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish. Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling.
” To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. I wish you great success and have no doubt that your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in these pivotal roles, ” he said.
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