APM Terminals has deepened its partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to accelerate the migration to the B’Odogwu platform at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, to enhance trade facilitation and optimise cargo clearance processes.
The B’Odogwu, a next-generation replacement for the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II), is designed to modernise port operations through digital process optimisation, improved transparency and expedited goods clearance.
However, the migration has presented challenges for stakeholders across the logistics and freight forwarding landscape. In response to customer feedback during this transitional phase, APM Terminals Apapa, in collaboration with the NCS, organised a comprehensive training session for consignees and clearing agents in Lagos to help them navigate the intricacies of the new customs framework.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Government Relations at APM Terminals Apapa, Olayinka Akinlade, explained that the training was prompted by findings from an internal review that highlighted a decline in cleared cargo volumes.
She said, despite a surge in discharged imports, container movement from the terminal was not as seamless as expected.
“Our market survey revealed that the migration to B’Odogwu was the primary factor behind the slowdown,” she said. Further bolstering support, she announced the launch of the APM Terminals–Customs B’Odogwu Clinic—a dedicated resolution hub offering real-time assistance with documentation, shipment processing, and platform navigation.
Akinlade stated that the Clinic will promote transparency and ensure operational issues are resolved swiftly, while also ensuring that problems encountered during daily operations are addressed promptly and transparently.
The Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Aondona Fanyam, acknowledged the initial difficulties with the system’s rollout, citing issues such as bank payment visibility and procedural ambiguities.He reassured attendees that these obstacles were being actively addressed and emphasised Customs’ commitment to continued engagement.
“We remain committed to ongoing training and direct interaction with stakeholders,” Fanyam stated.
Industry participants lauded the initiative for its clarity and collaborative spirit. The Deputy Chairman of the Clearing and Forwarding Trade Group at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr Ikenna Nwosu, praised the proactive partnership between APM Terminals and the NCS and expressed optimism about overcoming early challenges.
Also, the Logistics Manager at Raine Industries Limited, Godstime Ifenudo, reflected positively on the experience, stating that this seminar offered vital clarity and resolved many uncertainties faced.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Logistics Supervisor for GAC Motors, Uche Michael, highlighted the transparency and responsiveness demonstrated during the training.
“The session was immensely valuable. We were able to voice our real-world concerns and understand Customs’ perspective. The dialogue was honest, and it gave us confidence that the system will improve over time,” he said.
