Economy

Customs Revenue Hits ₦161bn in 21 Days Despite System Downtime

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported that its Apapa Area Command collected ₦161 billion in revenue within the first 21 days of August 2025, using its new Unified Customs Management System known as B’Odogwu.

The Area Controller, Babatunde Olomu, disclosed the figure during an engagement with port stakeholders in Lagos. He noted that the revenue was achieved even though the platform experienced periods of downtime, stressing that Apapa Command remains central to the service’s overall revenue performance.

According to Olomu, the B’Odogwu platform is gradually proving more efficient than older systems previously used by the service.

He expressed confidence that the technology will further boost trade facilitation as ongoing adjustments by the Customs ICT department are completed.

He assured importers, licensed agents, and freight operators that their patience during the transition phase would yield results, as the service continues to refine the platform to deliver uninterrupted operations.

Senior Customs officials also confirmed that the Comptroller General is in discussions with the Nigerian Shippers Council and terminal operators to mitigate the impact of delays caused by network disruptions, particularly on demurrage costs.

The Zonal Coordinator for Zone A, Charles Orbih, praised trade operators for their cooperation despite challenges, saying it reflected confidence in the Customs Service’s long-term plan to strengthen its digital infrastructure.

With the ₦161 billion recorded in just three weeks, the Apapa Command is expected to maintain its position as a leading revenue contributor for the NCS, as the B’Odogwu system stabilises and operational efficiency improves.