The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Customs Area Controller Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Command Onne, Rivers state, Comptroller Immaculata Nyong fsi, has urged stakeholders to ensure compliance aimed at fostering improved operational efficiency, and promoting seamless trade within the zone.
This call was made Tuesday during an interactive session with stakeholders within the oil and Gas Free Zone Authority.
At the meeting which brought together key players in the Free Trade Zone, including shipping lines, terminal operators, clearing agents among others, Comptroller Nyong emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to a 14-day grace period for the perfection of Urgent Release consignments and ensuring prompt response to Demand Notices (DNs).
She added that these measures were crucial to sustaining the integrity and smooth flow of trade in the zone.
While addressing operational challenges, Comptroller Nyong assured stakeholders that the persistent issue of poor network connectivity would soon be resolved with the introduction of the ‘B’Odogwu’ platform, a new digital system aimed at streamlining customs processes.
A comprehensive presentation on the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS)—popularly referred to as B’Odogwu—was delivered by Assistant Comptroller of Customs US Abba and Assistant Superintendent of Customs I MM Aji, whereby they assured that the platform promises enhanced efficiency in data management and trade facilitation.
During the interactive session, stakeholders raised valid concerns regarding the security of the B’Odogwu platform and the preservation of historical data. These concerns were addressed by the presenters, who assured participants of the system’s robust security architecture and data continuity features.
Comptroller Nyong fsi reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to fostering a transparent and responsive trade environment, urging all stakeholders to collaborate proactively for the success of reforms within the Free Trade Zone.
Speaking to Newsmen on the sidelines of the event, the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA,) oil and Gas Free Trade Zone chapter Chairman, Hon. Eric Aso Kalu expressed satisfaction with the engagement.
He said he has no doubt in the ability of the new oil and gas free trade zone Customs Area Controller Comptroller, Immaculata Nyong to deliver on the mandate of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.
“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.”
“We will give her all the needed cooperation and make sure she succeeds” he assured.
Others at the engagement include General Manager, Operations at the Oil and Gas FTZ Authority, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Onne Port, a representative of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Representatives of WACT, PrimePort, Seplat, Total Energies, ANLCA among other critical stakeholders.
By Bon Peters,
in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
