Lagos (Nigeria): The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it generated N215 billion in August, despite network glitches on its new Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), popularly known as B’Odogwu.
Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, disclosed this in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Tunde Ayagbal, on Monday in Lagos.
Olomu said the August revenue was proof of the progress made with B’Odogwu as a reliable, homegrown platform to support trade and boost government revenue.
“Our N215 billion revenue collection in August using the B’Odogwu platform confirms the progress of our journey to build a dependable trade system for Nigerians and stakeholders,” he said.
The comptroller described the revenue feat as a victory, stressing that the command would continue to improve in the months to come.
“We are braving the odds, and the sky is our limit,” he added.
He attributed the revenue drive to increased confidence in the platform and praised stakeholders and officers for their resilience and patriotism.
Olomu also commended the trading community, importers, exporters, and licensed agents, for trusting the system, noting that Apapa remained Nigeria’s premier port and the lifeline of its international trade.
“Taking a cue from the confidence-building engagements personally led by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, we assure all stakeholders that B’Odogwu is on the verge of a breakthrough for greater success,” he said.
According to him, the patience and support shown by stakeholders are invaluable to strengthening a homegrown ICT platform capable of revolutionising trade facilitation in Nigeria.
Olomu added that the CGC had directed the ICT/Modernisation Department at Customs Headquarters to sustain improvements by resolving hitches, responding to complaints, and supporting users to enhance efficiency.
He expressed optimism that UCMS would continue to surpass user expectations and earn wider acceptance.