The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported a remarkable revenue haul of ₦215 billion for August 2025, in spite of ongoing technical challenges linked to the recently adopted Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), widely known as B’Odogwu.
Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, Customs Area Controller for the Apapa Command, attributed the milestone to growing stakeholder confidence and the steady evolution of the homegrown digital platform.
In a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Tunde Ayagbalo, Comptroller Olomu commended both customs officers and trade stakeholders for their resilience and consistent support, describing the August collection as proof of progress under the B’Odogwu regime.
“Our collection of ₦215 billion using the B’Odogwu platform confirms progress in our ongoing journey to build a dependable platform for trade by Nigerians and for all those doing import, export, and excise business in Nigeria,” Olomu said.
A Testament to Patriotism and Collaboration
Despite reports of network issues and system downtime, the Customs chief stressed that officers remained committed and focused. He praised their patriotism and professionalism, noting that the high revenue figure reflects not just system capability, but also the resolve of personnel operating it.
He also acknowledged importers, exporters, and licensed customs agents for staying engaged and optimistic about the future of digital customs processing through the UCMS.
“This is a collective victory for all of us, and we shall continue the march forward for greater successes in the days, weeks, and months ahead. We are braving all odds, and the sky is our limit,” he added.
Push for System Improvements Underway
According to Olomu, the ICT/Modernisation Department of the NCS Headquarters has been directed to intensify support for the B’Odogwu system, with a focus on quickly resolving glitches, enhancing user support, and strengthening service delivery.
The Controller noted that ongoing improvements are being driven by high-level stakeholder engagements, including those attended by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who has reiterated the service’s commitment to reliable digital trade facilitation.
“We are at the verge of a major breakthrough. The patience and support of stakeholders are invaluable to this journey,” Olomu said, while also highlighting B’Odogwu’s potential to revolutionize customs operations and trade processing in Nigeria.
With continued collaboration and system enhancements, the Apapa Command is confident the UCMS will soon exceed user expectations and set a new standard for digital customs processes in the country.
