Apapa Customs trains clearing agents, importers on B’Odogwu platform ahead of deployment

In preparation for the deployment of the B’Odogwu platform, the Apapa Customs Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Wednesday conducted a training program for clearing agents and traders operating at the premiere port on the use of the platform.

The training, held at the Apapa Command aimed to equip agents and importers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital platform and expedite cargo clearance.

During the training, the clearing agents were taken through the platform’s features, functionalities, and operational procedures.

Lead trainer of the B’Odogwu team, Assistant Controller C. Nwachkuwu took the agents on key aspects of the platform including the processing of Form ‘M’ and the Pre – Arrival Assessment Report ( PAAR).

She explained that agents must be onboarded on the B’Odogwu application and possess valid licenses to access the platform.

Nwachukwu urged the agents to onboard the platform immediately to avoid delays after deployment.

Higlighting some of the benefits of the B’Odogwu platform, Nwachkuwu said it marks the end of the era of processing of PAAR and Form ‘M’ at the banks.

She said, “As a declarant, to make your declaration, you have your work space on the B’Odogwu application. You can also process your PAAR and Form M on the platform.

“So gradually, the era of going to bank to process your PAAR and form M is phasing out with the deployment of B’Odogwu.

” You must have valid license to function on B’Odogwu otherwise it will not be visible for traders/ importers to select you for a job.”

Earlier in his opening remarks, Controller of the command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, emphasized the importance of the training, stating that it is crucial ito keep agents abreast on the platform’s features.

Represented by Deputy Controller in charge of Administration, Henry Eromode, Olomu urged the agents to listen attentively to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.

He said, “The importance of training cannot be relegated because for a system that is new, we need to have you kept abreast of some of the features of the system, which is a transition from the old one, which is NICIS.

“As customs representative, listen to the B’Odogwu team, ask pertinent questions so that when they are no longer here, you will be able to remember what you learn and apply them.

“We know the pilot project of the B’Odogwu has taken off in PTML and so in preparation for the launch here in Apapa, it has become imperative that a training session is organized for stakeholders and officers of the command.

“The B’Odogwu team started with officers training some days ago but today is the turn of clearing agents, importers and exporters within Apapa Area command.”

The introduction of the B’Odogwu platform is part of the NCS ‘s efforts to modernize it’s operations and improve trade faciltation.

So far, the platform has integrated key stakeholders including terminal operators and over 20 banks, to facilitate seamless customs clearance.