…PTML Makes Highest Monthly Collection of N44.9b in November, 2024
By Nkechi Eze
Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, Customs Area Controller of PTML Command, announced on Wednesday that the pilot launch of B’Odogwu, a new customs trading platform, has been successful, resulting in increased revenue.
In a statement made available by the Public Relations Officer, PTML Command, CSC Muhammad Yakubu, Daniyan said that the command’s revenue has increased with the collection of N44.9b in November 2024 which is the highest monthly collection ever made by the command.
“In addition to over 5 banks already hooked up to the system, the NCS ICT/Modernization Department has concluded arrangement for the (17) banks that are on inter-switch payment platform coming onboard. The Customs headquarters have started interactions with the banks and this would be addressed by Thursday” he said.
Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, the Area Controller of PTML Command, also debunked claims that four vessels were left unattended at the PTML berth due to issues with the B’Odogwu platform. According to him, these allegations are completely false.
He explained that the command had a meeting with stakeholders earlier in the week to address the challenges faced by agents on the B’Odogwu platform. During the meeting, all issues were resolved, and agents were advised to contact the implementation team for further assistance.
He added that to ensure smooth trade operations, the PTML Command has implemented temporary manual processing methods for cargo clearance. Additionally, the command has established a collaborative interface with the terminal operator to support port users who have already made entries on the B’Odogwu platform.
The Controller said most agents claiming inability to capture have not registered on the platform and urged them to come forward for capture to address any challenge.
“B’Odogwu is a Nigerian baby that should be fed by Nigerians. We are weaning our baby from a foreign mother, therefore, 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” he said.
“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.
According to Comptroller Daniyan, as of Wednesday, the B’Odogwu platform has recorded significant progress in November, with 292 bills of lading already captured, while 375 are pending. Additionally, over 98 importers have successfully paid their duties through the platform, with more banks expected to join soon.
