Nigeria Customs Fixes Import Clearance Disruption on B’Odogwu Platform

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that it has successfully resolved a recent technical glitch on the B’Odogwu trade facilitation platform, which had disrupted import clearance processes for several days. The hitch, which affected importers and clearing agents across multiple ports, had raised concerns over potential delays in cargo processing and increased demurrage costs.

According to the NCS, the issue was caused by a system error that temporarily hindered the seamless processing of import documentation and duty payments through the platform. The B’Odogwu platform—introduced to streamline import procedures, improve transparency, and reduce human interference in cargo clearance—has been a key component of the Customs Service’s ongoing digitalisation drive.

In a statement, Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed that the technical team worked around the clock with software vendors to identify and fix the problem. He assured stakeholders that normal operations have been restored and that additional safeguards have been implemented to prevent a recurrence.

“We regret any inconvenience caused to importers, clearing agents, and other stakeholders during the downtime,” Maiwada said. “Our ICT unit has put measures in place to ensure the system remains stable and that trade facilitation is not compromised.”

Importers had earlier expressed frustration over the delays, noting that the disruption in processing cargo release orders and payment receipts led to congestion at port terminals. Some clearing agents reported incurring additional storage and demurrage charges due to the breakdown.

The B’Odogwu platform, named after a term popular in Nigerian business circles, is part of the Nigeria Customs’ modernisation project aimed at reducing bottlenecks in cargo clearance. The system integrates electronic submission of shipping documents, automated duty assessment, and online payment processing—allowing traders to complete most import procedures remotely.

Trade experts say the recent glitch underscores the importance of building robust ICT infrastructure to support Nigeria’s growing reliance on digital customs operations. They stress that while automation is critical to improving efficiency and curbing corruption at the ports, it must be backed by strong technical support and rapid response mechanisms to address any disruptions.

Clearing agent associations welcomed the swift resolution of the problem but urged the Customs Service to improve its communication during such incidents. They suggested that early alerts and real-time updates could help stakeholders make alternative arrangements and reduce the financial impact of system downtime.

The NCS, in response, promised to enhance its customer support channels and maintain closer engagement with the freight forwarding community. Officials also hinted at plans to expand the platform’s capabilities, including integrating real-time cargo tracking and faster dispute resolution features.

Port operators have reported that clearance activities have since resumed at normal pace, with a backlog of delayed shipments now being processed. While some traders remain cautious about the possibility of future glitches, many have acknowledged the platform’s overall efficiency since its launch.

Industry analysts note that the Customs’ ability to quickly resolve the disruption reflects growing institutional capacity in managing digital trade systems—an encouraging sign for Nigeria’s goal of becoming a competitive player in regional and global trade.

 

With the B’Odogwu platform back online, the NCS says it remains committed to driving reforms that will make import and export procedures faster, cheaper, and more transparent, thereby supporting the government’s broader economic diversification agenda.