…Says it delivers promising results at PTML despite early challenges

The Customs Area Controller Ports and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command, Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, has identified the potential of the newly implemented B’Odogwu Customs trading platform as an efficiency and revenue generation tool and called on stakeholders to embrace it.

He stated this, at a press briefing on Wednesday, 4 December 2024, stressing that despite the teething problems encountered during its rollout, B’Odogwu has emerged as a crucial step-forward tool. 

“B’Odogwu is a Nigerian initiative that requires the support of Nigerians. We are transitioning from reliance on a foreign system, and I urge everyone to stand behind this innovation. There will be no return to NICSIS II; its use has officially ended at PTML, as mandated by the service,” Comptroller Daniyan stated, announcing that the command had achieved a milestone in revenue collection, with a record-breaking N44.9 billion collected in November 2024 — the highest monthly revenue ever generated by the command.

Responding to stakeholders’ concerns, Comptroller Daniyan dismissed claims that the new system had caused delays. He assured the public that all vessels berthed at PTML had been processed promptly. He further noted that the command had engaged with stakeholders earlier in the week to address issues raised by agents, urging them to approach the implementation team for support if needed.

“Many of the agents who said they are unable to capture data have not yet registered on the platform. I strongly encourage them to complete their registration to resolve any challenges. We are aware that some agents are still adjusting to the additional requirements of this system, which were not part of NICSIS II. However, as issues arise, we are committed to resolving them,” he said.

Comptroller Daniya revealed that over five banks are already integrated into the system, with 17 additional banks on the Interswitch payment platform expected to join by Thursday. He emphasised that these improvements would simplify transactions and enhance efficiency.

Stressing the importance of compliance in trade facilitation, Daniyan explained that properly declared Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) cargoes could be processed within two hours, provided declarants adhere to the required procedures. He reaffirmed the command’s dedication to the service’s core mandates, stating that national security and revenue collection would not be compromised for the sake of trade facilitation.

… CGC Adeniyi hails her dedication, and describes her achievement as a testament to the Service’s commitment to capacity building!

The Nigeria Customs Service has further confirmed its ratings as a capacity and vision developer as Kaduna-born Olanike Nafisat Balogun makes history as the first female pilot in the Customs Service (NCS), charting a path of courage and resilience and breaking all aviation barriers. 

A native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area, in Osun State, Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Balogun’s journey began in 2002 when she was recruited as a Customs Assistant to serve as a cabin crew member in the Service’s Air-wing Unit.

Speaking in a recent interview, DSC Balogun reflected on her journey, sharing how her unwavering ambition and an unspared Service’s support prompted her transformation, from a flight attendant to a licensed pilot.

“My role as the first female pilot in the service reflects my commitment as a woman to advancing my passionate dream as well as the operational capabilities of the NCS” 

 “Staying in the Service when many of my colleagues opted for better-paying airline jobs was a tough decision, but I was determined to contribute to public service and achieve my dream of becoming a pilot,” she said.

Balogun’s career milestones include earning an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and eventually securing her Pilot Certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, with the NCS sponsoring her training.  

DSC Balogun asserted that being the first female pilot in the NCS Air-wing is credited to inspiring women within and beyond the Service never to relent in pursuing their dreams. 

“My role as the first female pilot in the service reflects my commitment as a woman to advancing my passionate dream as well as the operational capabilities of the NCS” she added.

As she continues to fly for the NCS, Balogun remains passionate about inspiring others, stating, “I hope my journey motivates young Nigerians, especially women, to chase their dreams and break through barriers.” 

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended her dedication and described her achievement as a testament to the Service’s commitment to capacity building and innovation. “Her story exemplifies what is possible with determination and institutional support,” he said.

Stakeholders and experts in the nation’s maritime sector have expressed support for the Coast Guard Bill before the National Assembly, with many describing the proposed legislation as a boost to the federal government’s efforts in securing the maritime space.

Speaking at a public hearing convened by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to discuss the proposed bill for the establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard, they equally presented varying views on the bill, with the majority supporting the creation of the National Coast Guard.

The majority of presentations voiced strong support for the establishment of the Coast Guard, with notable endorsements from prominent figures including Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN; Dr Ade Dosunmu, MON, former Director General of NIMASA; Mrs Jean Anishere, SAN, representing the Nigeria Bar Association; and Rear Admiral Ekwerre U. Ekwerre (Rtd), former Flag Officer Commanding the Training Command of the Nigerian Navy.

Dr. Olisa Agbakoba described the bill as timely but emphasized the need for professional input to address certain concerns within the draft. He expressed his willingness to assist in this process. Dr. Ade Dosunmu offered full support for the bill, suggesting that the Nigerian Navy should focus on blue-water operations and national defence against external threats, while the Coast Guard should address maritime crimes and incidents along the nation’s extensive 855-kilometre coastline using more adaptable resources. 

He referenced successful maritime nations such as India, Singapore, China, the United States, Japan, Egypt, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, all of which have well-defined roles for both the Navy and Coast Guard.

However, Dr Dosunmu cautioned against assigning functions such as hydrography and oceanographic research to the Coast Guard, as these responsibilities are already managed by other agencies, and incorporating them could divert focus from the Coast Guard’s primary mission. 

Jean Anishere, SAN, articulated her support for the bill while highlighting certain ambiguities that must be resolved before it can be enacted. She pointed out specific provisions in the bill that require clarification and further refinement.

Retired Rear Admiral Ekwerre U. Ekwerre addressed concerns raised by the Nigerian Navy and advocated that the Navy should concentrate on defence, showcasing military strength, and conducting diplomatic operations within territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

He asserted that the Coast Guard should be responsible for enforcing maritime laws in the nation’s inland waters.

In summary, while the majority of stakeholders endorsed the establishment of the Nigeria Coast Guard, they also called for careful consideration of the bill’s provisions to ensure clarity and effectiveness in its implementation.