Customs Area II Command Onne Launches ‘B’Odogwu’

Customs Area II Command Onne Launches ‘B’Odogwu’ for Trade Efficiency and Revenue Collection

In a landmark move to enhance national revenue collection and streamline port operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Area II Command, Onne, has launched a major trade facilitation initiative tagged Project B’Odogwu.

Unveiled during a colourful ceremony at the Command Headquarters in Onne, Rivers State, B’Odogwu, an indigenous technology called the Unified Customs Management System for modernization of Customs operations, enhance compliance and facilitate trade. It stands for Boosting Onne’s Development, Operations, Growth, Work Ethics, and Unity, is a strategic intervention aimed at modernising the Command’s trade ecosystem through technology, discipline, and service integrity.

 He further stated that , ‘’It is imperative for the Command to key into the Service’s efforts to fully automate its services to improve efficiency, enhance compliance and optimize revenue collection.”

The Onne customs boss added “Today we are witnesses of the first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) released on the Bódogwu platform with reference number C1202505PN.”

Comptroller Mohammed Babandede (center) with officers of the NCS Area II Command, Onne, during the official launch of Project B’Odogwu aimed at boosting trade efficiency and revenue collection. Photo: Nigeria Customs Service

He described the feat as  another giant stride achieved by the Service under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR even as he insisted that the technology would facilitate  efficient and timely clearance of goods; thereby, reducing delays and costs for businesses.

This was contained in a press release made available to our correspondent, Tuesday in Port Harcourt by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Theophilus P Duniya.

A Bold Vision for Smart Port Operations

Speaking at the launch, the Customs Area Comptroller Mohammed Babande, described B’Odogwu as more than a project, it is a philosophy built on innovation, unity, and national economic growth.

“This initiative is about synergy, efficiency, and responsibility. B’Odogwu is not just a name; it’s a philosophy. It embodies boldness, strength, and vision. We want Onne to be a model for trade efficiency and ethical operations,”
– Comptroller Baba Imam

According to him, the project will serve as a springboard for transforming Onne into a globally competitive maritime gateway by fostering accountability, transparency, and collaboration among stakeholders.

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Innovation Meets Accountability

At the heart of the B’Odogwu initiative is a digital dashboard designed to monitor performance metrics in real time, including clearance timelines, revenue collection, and compliance ratings.

Key features of the initiative include:

• Automated Customs processes for improved cargo handling.
• Capacity building for officers to align with international best practices.
• Closer inter-agency coordination to reduce procedural delays.
• Zero tolerance for unethical practices and revenue leakages.

The initiative aligns with the Customs Modernisation Programme and supports the federal government’s drive for ease of doing business in Nigeria’s seaports.

Revenue Milestone and National Impact

Comptroller Baba Imam announced that the Command is targeting a new revenue milestone for 2025, building on the Command’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s top-performing customs zones.

“We believe this project will plug revenue leakages, strengthen enforcement, and position Onne as a reference point in customs administration,”
–Comptroller Mohammed Babandede

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to achieving record-breaking revenue collection through smart customs strategies and stakeholder engagement.

Applause from Maritime Stakeholders

Representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), terminal operators, shipping companies, and licensed clearing agents present at the event commended the Customs Command for its proactive leadership.

“B’Odogwu is a game-changer. It brings structure, accountability, and progress to the Onne port corridor,”
– Chief Ifeanyi ISIKAKU, Chairperson, ANLCA Onne Chapter

They urged other customs formations to adopt similar reforms in the collective interest of the Nigerian economy.

Beyond the Borders

Symbolic and strategic, the name “B’Odogwu”—a powerful Igbo term meaning “the great one” or “champion”—reflects the Command’s renewed posture as a strong force for economic advancement.

The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the upgraded trade facilitation center and a live demonstration of the command’s new client interface platform