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By Zika Bobby
The Deputy National President, Seaport of the National Government Approved Freight Forwarders, (NAGAFF) and Managing Director of International Supply Chain Systems Ltd, Afam Chukwuma, has described the Customs modernisation effort as the most progressive digital transformation by any government agency in Nigeria.
According to Chukwuma, every Customs process, from job releases to clearance, is now handled online. He highlighted that the entire system is interconnected, monitored in real time, and far more efficient than the manual operations previously in place.
He said while the system is showing daily improvement, stakeholders must remain patient and committed to providing feedback.
Tracing the digital journey of the Nigeria Customs Service from the era of Preshipment and Destination Inspection to ASYCUDA, NICIS, and now B’Odogwu, he acknowledged that trade facilitation has significantly improved.
However, the transition has come with its own challenges, especially with system glitches that have caused delays, demurrages, and penalties affecting freight forwarders and importers.
Chukwuma recognised the frustration among stakeholders due to disruptions in the early stages of the new system but called for patience and continuous feedback to help stabilise the platform.
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He appealed to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi to consider introducing palliatives or temporary compensation to cushion the impact on businesses facing demurrage charges during the transition.
He said the CGC responded by engaging the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, with ongoing discussions involving terminal operators and shipping companies about potentially extending free days.
On customs’ responsiveness to user complaints, Chukwuma provided a mixed assessment, stating that performance varies across commands. He pointed out that at PTML, where the traffic is lighter, the system performs well, with a rating of 90 percent. In contrast, Apapa, which
handles a heavier volume, might score around 70 percent, though officers there are also doing their best under pressure. He commended the Customs technical team for responding swiftly to complaints, with many issues being resolved within one to two weeks. This, he said, shows the agency’s commitment to making the digital transition successful.
Chukwuma expressed optimism about the long term benefits of the B’Odogwu system but emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between Customs and the freight forwarding community. He noted that even companies like Toyota face technical challenges and conduct recalls, suggesting that what truly matters is a commitment to improvement.
Drawing from his own company’s experience with implementing a customised ERP system, he called on importers, freight forwarders, and licensed Customs agents to stay engaged, provide structured feedback, and give Customs the space to fully stabilise the system.
He also encouraged the NCS to maintain transparency, accountability, and openness to compensatory measures during this adjustment period.
