PTML Command Achieves Record Revenue With B’Odogwu Platform

PTML Command Achieves Record Revenue With B’Odogwu Platform
……we will overcome the current teething challenges – Comptroller.Daniyan

PTML CAC,ARC.Compt.Tenny Daniyan

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported a significant increase in revenue following the implementation of the new customs trading platform, B’Odogwu. Comptroller Tenny Daniyan announced at a press conference on Wednesday that the command collected an unprecedented ₦44.9 billion in November 2024, marking the highest monthly revenue in its history.

Comptroller Daniyan highlighted the success of B’Odogwu, which has been in its pilot stage at PTML. He noted that the platform’s integration with over five banks has already been completed, and arrangements are underway to onboard 17 additional banks on the interswitch payment platform by Thursday.

Addressing concerns about operational challenges, Daniyan refuted claims that four vessels were left unattended at the PTML berth due to issues with B’Odogwu. He assured stakeholders that the command has been proactive in resolving any difficulties, including using manual methods to process cargoes and collaborating with terminal operators to ensure smooth operations.

Daniyan emphasized the importance of agents registering on the B’Odogwu platform to avoid capture issues and urged them to seek assistance from the implementation team if needed. He reiterated that the command is committed to transitioning fully from the old NICIS II system to B’Odogwu, which he described as a “Nigerian baby” that requires national support.
“B’Odogwu is a Nigerian baby that should be fed by Nigerians . We are weaning our baby from a foreign mother and I urge all Nigerians to support it. We are not going back to NICIS II. The use of NICIS II platform has come to an end in PTML as this is the position of the Service.

” We are aware that some of our agents are yet to be fully acquainted with the additional requirements that were not involved in NICIS II. As the problems come up, we are solving them.

“Note that the management has dispatched an implementation team here to ensure our stakeholders don’t suffer. We were disconnected from NICIS II three months ago and we have fully commenced implementation to grow our own teeth and serve the country better. We have left NICIS here in PTML.

“We are committed to get it right here before moving to Tin Can and other ports. Our turn around time for properly declared RoRo cargo is still two hours but this is dependent on compliance by the declarant. As a command, we will not sacrifice national security and revenue on the altar of trade facilitation,” the CAC said.p
The Comptroller also mentioned that the command’s turnaround time for properly declared RoRo cargo remains at two hours, contingent on compliance by the declarant. He assured that the command would not compromise national security and revenue for trade facilitation.

In November, 292 bills of lading were captured, with 375 still pending. Over 98 importers have paid their duties through the B’Odogwu platform, and more banks are expected to join soon, enhancing payment options for stakeholders.

The PTML Command’s success with B’Odogwu is seen as a significant step towards modernizing Nigeria’s customs operations, with plans to expand the platform to other ports once the pilot phase is perfected.