In a decisive move to modernize Nigeria’s trade processes, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully launched the pilot phase of its Unified Customs Management System, known as the B’Odogwu platform, for the processing of Form M across all its Commands.
According to a statement signed by Assistant Comptroller of Customs, on Monday, Abdullahi Maiwada, who serves as the National Public Relations Officer for the Comptroller-General, the digital rollout is part of a broader technological reform aimed at streamlining customs documentation and enhancing operational transparency.
“This pilot phase marks a major milestone in the Service’s journey toward full automation of trade procedures,” said Maiwada. “The B’Odogwu platform is a critical tool that will simplify and accelerate the Form M process, from initiation to Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) generation.”
The trial phase was launched at three key ports — Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML), Tin Can Island Port, and Apapa Area Command — selected for their high traffic and strategic importance. These locations provided a controlled environment to test system functionality and gather real-time feedback.
During the pilot, a total of 544 Form M entries were handled. Of these, 283 were registered, 10 validated, and 26 stored for future action. Another 41 entries were submitted, while 120 were returned for corrections. Additionally, 11 were queried, 14 PAARs were locked, and 39 were recommended for approval.
The trial also led to the generation of 37 PAARs, out of which 7 were registered and 12 had their Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) processed. Two were fully approved, while eight were flagged for further review. Four were submitted for ongoing processing, and four were queried.
“These figures demonstrate not only the technical robustness of the B’Odogwu platform but also the readiness of our officers and stakeholders to embrace digital trade reforms,” Maiwada added.
In a forward-looking move, the Service has called on shipping lines, airlines, and financial institutions to begin integrating with the B’Odogwu platform as part of the transition to full-scale deployment.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has pledged continued investment in digital transformation. “This initiative reflects our commitment to a customs system that supports national development through faster clearance timelines, improved revenue generation, and enhanced supply chain security,” he stated.
The successful pilot sets the stage for a nationwide rollout, positioning the B’Odogwu platform as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s 21st-century trade infrastructure.
