The new Customs Area Controller of the Ports and Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Joe Anani, has praised stakeholders for their strong support in embracing the Unified Customs Management System, popularly known as B’Odogwu.
Anani gave the commendation during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Command on Wednesday, just days after assuming office. He said the success recorded so far with the new digital platform was made possible through the sacrifices, cooperation, and feedback of clearing agents and other port users.
The new CAC, who took over from Assistant Comptroller General Tenny Daniyan on September 12, 2025, following the latter’s promotion, assured stakeholders that his administration would run an open-door policy, stressing that collaboration and compliance remain the bedrock of trade facilitation.
According to him, “It is an absolute honour to stand before you today as the newly appointed CAC of this Command. This task for me is both a privilege and a challenge that must be accomplished. I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible impact that strong stakeholder relationships can have on driving innovation and growth, especially for an innovation like the Unified Customs Management System, popularly called B’Odogwu.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for the support you gave to this initiative and the great sacrifices you all made in our journey from its inception to its stage of stability. You are the heartbeat of Customs modernisation. Your trust, your feedback, and your unwavering support have built the foundation of everything we’ve achieved so far with B’Odogwu.”
He noted that the world of trade is changing rapidly with new technologies, shifting markets, and evolving expectations. However, he said the Service remains committed to stakeholders and would continue to make decisions that place them at the centre of its activities.
“The CGC holds stakeholder engagement very dearly, and we at this Command follow in that direction. I am aware of your good records of compliance, which are trailed by great testimonies; let’s keep it growing,” he added.
Anani also appealed to agents and importers to sustain compliance with cargo declaration, stressing that only accurate documentation can guarantee smooth clearance of goods, reduce bottlenecks, and promote true trade facilitation.
“I’m here to listen, to collaborate, and to ensure that every decision we make puts you at the centre of success and productivity. Let me promise you that my office as CAC shall be open to engagements. We will innovate with integrity, serve with excellence, and grow together. Your success is our success, and I’m personally dedicated to making sure we exceed your expectations,” he assured.
Stakeholders present at the maiden meeting included representatives of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), and the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA). They applauded the new CAC for convening the meeting within his first week in office, describing it as a sign of his commitment to inclusive leadership.
The Unified Customs Management System, B’Odogwu, was introduced by the Nigeria Customs Service as part of its trade modernisation agenda aimed at improving transparency, reducing human interface, and enhancing efficiency at the ports. Stakeholders say its success depends largely on the continued cooperation between Customs officers and industry players.
With Anani’s assurance of open engagement and stakeholder-driven leadership, port users expect smoother cargo clearance processes and better alignment with global standards of customs administration.
