By Bon Peters
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – June 2025
The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Command in Onne, Rivers State, Comptroller Immaculata Nyong fsi, has urged stakeholders to embrace full compliance in their operations to enhance efficiency and promote seamless trade within the zone.
This call was made on Tuesday during an interactive session organized by the command with stakeholders in the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority.
The engagement brought together key players, including shipping lines, terminal operators, and clearing agents. Comptroller Nyong emphasized the need for strict adherence to the 14-day grace period for the perfection of Urgent Release consignments and the timely response to Demand Notices (DNs), noting that these steps are essential for maintaining trade integrity and smooth operations in the zone.
Addressing persistent operational challenges, Comptroller Nyong announced the imminent deployment of the ‘B’Odogwu’ Unified Customs Management System (UCMS)—a new digital platform aimed at streamlining customs procedures, improving efficiency, and facilitating trade.
The system was presented by Assistant Comptroller of Customs U.S. Abba and Assistant Superintendent of Customs I.M.M. Aji. They assured participants of the platform’s enhanced security, robust data continuity, and efficiency features, which will tackle current issues such as poor network connectivity.
During the session, stakeholders raised concerns about the security of the new platform and the preservation of historical trade data. The presenters reassured participants that the B’Odogwu system is equipped with advanced security protocols and data continuity mechanisms to safeguard information.
Comptroller Nyong reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to a transparent and collaborative environment, encouraging all stakeholders to work proactively for the successful implementation of reforms within the Free Trade Zone.
Speaking to newsmen on the sidelines of the event, Hon. Eric Aso Kalu, Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) Oil and Gas FTZ Chapter, expressed satisfaction with the engagement.
“Since her assumption of office, I have engaged her severally, and our discussions showed she is here for collaboration and synergy geared towards seamless operations at the oil and gas zone. We will give her all the needed cooperation and ensure she succeeds,” he stated.
Other attendees at the engagement included the General Manager of Operations at the Oil and Gas FTZ Authority, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Onne Port, representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, WACT, PrimePort, Seplat, TotalEnergies, and other key stakeholders.
