B’Odogwu — Nigeria’s AI-Driven Unified Customs Management System

B'Odogwu (meaning 'powerful' in Igbo) is Nigeria's Unified Customs Management System, replacing the older NICIS II platform, developed in partnership with technology firm cb-xp under a 20-year public-private partnership concession.

Launched in October 2024 at Apapa Port and rolled out across all 34 commands by November 2024, the system applies AI risk-profiling and machine-learning pattern detection to identify high-risk cargo, automate valuation checks, detect weight inconsistencies, and cross-reference data with partner agencies including the Central Bank of Nigeria, FIRS, SON, and NAFDAC.

Between October 2024 and May 2025, the platform generated ₦230 billion in customs revenue; H1 2025 collections reached ₦204.7 billion, a 34.1% year-on-year increase. Clearance time for compliant shipments fell to 2 hours, meeting World Customs Organisation Time Release Study standards. Over 1,800 officers were trained in AI and data analytics, and by Q1 2025 transaction volume reached 327,928 declarations. ECOWAS recognised B'Odogwu as a regional innovation model in May 2025.

Challenges during rollout included technical glitches in partner-agency integrations, payment-processing delays, and initial pushback from clearing agents. The Comptroller-General acknowledged transitional difficulties and established consultation mechanisms with the Nigerian Shippers' Council.