.Captures First Single Goods Declaration
.Commits to Transparent and Efficient Cargo Operations
ZAINAB JUNAID
As part of the ongoing effort to digitalize operations, aligning with the Federal Government’s initiative to improve ease of doing business in the country, the Nigeria Customs Service, TinCan Island Port Command has successfully captured its first Single Goods Declaration, SGD, using the indigenous B’Odogwu Platform.
In a statement issued on Monday, 12 May 2025 by the Command’s Spokesman, Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the milestone achievements signifies progress in trade facilitation, transparency, and operational efficiency at the Command.
According to the statement, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, gave a remark on the accomplishment stating, “This achievement demonstrates our readiness to embrace technology that streamlines cargo clearance procedures, reduces dwell time, and improves service delivery. The B’Odogwu platform has shown great promise, and we are proud to be pioneers in its implementation”.
Comptroller Onyeka noted that the Command has achieved 100% network infrastructure coverage across all terminals and the Command’s headquarters, emphasising the network failure issue has become history or a thing of the past.
He said the implementation is to ensure seamless connectivity and efficient processing of cargo and trade documentation.
According to him, “The B’Odogwu platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Customs systems, providing a user-friendly interface for declarants, brokers, and other stakeholders. It enhances cargo tracking, document processing, and compliance management in real-time, reducing manual bottlenecks and opportunities for delays,” he stated.
Comptroller Onyeka further noted that the launch was preceded by series of extensive training sessions and stakeholder engagements organised by the Command, in collaboration with system developers.
“Key industry participants—including shipping lines, customs licensed agents, terminal operators, and customs officers—took part in these capacity-building initiatives. The training sessions were designed to ensure the seamless adoption of the new platform and covered critical areas such as system navigation, document processing, cargo tracking, and compliance protocols.
“Industry stakeholders, including SteveJosh Logistics International limited whose declaration was the first to be captured on the new platform, welcomed the innovation, expressing optimism that the new platform will reduce transaction costs and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness,” he added.
Tincan Island Port Command remains committed to embracing technological advancements that support the nation’s economic growth and international trade agenda.
