Tin-Can Customs Boosts Efforts for Hassle-Free Cargo Clearance

Ahead of the launch of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), sometimes referred to as the B’Odogwu system, at the Tin-Can Island Port in Lagos, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Customs Command, has promised importers and other port users a smooth cargo clearance process.

Recently, the Ports & Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML) began implementing the B’Odogwu system in its experimental phase.

Any teething problems with the B’Odogwu during its pilot phase at PTML have been fixed, according to Area Controller Frank Onyeka, who spoke at the Command’s World Customs Day celebration yesterday in Lagos. The system is expected to improve trade facilitation at the port.

“I stand before you today on this auspicious occasion of International Customs Day 2025 with a great sense of pride and responsibility,” he said.

He stated that the topic for this year, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” perfectly reflects the core of our purpose at the Tin-can Island Command and fits in with the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) strategic targets.
“The World Customs Organization (WCO) has entrusted us with not only making commitments but converting them into tangible, quantifiable actions,” he continued. This call to action emphasizes how important customs is to promoting legal trade facilitation, maintaining border security, obtaining government income, and promoting long-term economic prosperity.

So, allow me to emphasize the progress we have accomplished and the goal that motivates us to continue carrying out this mission.

“Efficiency in Trade Facilitation: At Tincan Island Command, we have implemented creative strategies to improve the ease of doing business, cut down on delays, and expedite procedures. Trade facilitation continues to be a fundamental component of our job.

We have automated important processes with the upcoming implementation of the B’Odogwu (Nigeria Customs Unified Customs Management System), guaranteeing transparency and lowering the need for human intervention. In addition to speeding up cargo clearance, the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, e-customs platforms, and artificial intelligence has strengthened our resolve to adhere to international best practices, as demonstrated by the pilot command PTML.

“The Command has prioritized stakeholder engagement as a critical enabler of efficiency,” Onyeka added. Through establishing alliances with shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and government organizations, we have created a cooperative ecosystem that facilitates smooth operations.

According to the Area Controller, these measures “have contributed to Nigeria’s improved ranking in the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), and the Ease of Doing Business assessments.”

As we commemorate International Customs Day, let us keep in mind that the lives of millions of people nationwide and billions more on the continent are profoundly impacted by the work we do.

We are not only carrying out our mission but also paving the way for a more promising future for our country and the world economy by keeping our promises to efficiency, security, and prosperity.

“To my distinguished colleagues, I implore you to keep up the cooperation, integration, and innovation in service delivery that the Comptroller General’s policy thrust requires.

“I want to express my gratitude to all of our stakeholders for their unwavering support and cooperation, which are still crucial to our success.”

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“Zone ‘A,’ being the foundation of the Nigeria Customs Service, represents a critical economic gateway for Nigeria, embodying the strategic importance of the Service in connecting Nigeria with global markets,” said ACG Charles Orbih, the Zone A Coordinator, in his speech. Thus, it is imperative that we do it correctly.

We urge our distinguished leaders and decision-makers to back our goal. It is essential that you make strategic investments in our human resources, technology, and infrastructure.

“You can immediately support national economic resilience, security, and global competitiveness by giving the Nigeria Customs Service more authority.

The purpose of our Service has been greatly advanced by the exceptional contributions of our outstanding officers and stakeholders, which we honor today. People whose creativity has protected our country’s economic interests, improved revenue collection, and eased commerce.

“As we celebrate this day, I encourage all Customs officers to adopt our concept all year round. Let’s show our dedication by providing dependable, competent, and creative service. This idea needs to be promoted in all of our interactions, procedures, and choices.

We as a group “will determine Nigeria’s economic competitiveness globally and national security,” Orbih stated.