Comptroller Odusanya Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Export Chain Partnership as Lilypond Command Unveils B’Odogwu Platform

ZAINAB JUNAID

In line with the Service’s automation efforts to improve efficiency, and optimize revenue collection, the Lilypond Export Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled the B’Odogwu platform, with Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya reaffirming commitment to strengthening partnership with all actors in the Export Chain.

Comptroller Odusanya made this known at the quarterly Stakeholders’ meeting held in Lagos on Tuesday, 21 May 2025.

The meeting, which brought together key stakeholders from both public and private sectors to review operational progress, resolve challenges, and strengthen collaboration for seamless export procedures, also commemorated the unveiling of the B’Odogwu platform – a new digital system designed to streamline export documentation and enhance efficiency across the export value chain.

While expressing appreciation for Stakeholders’ sustained cooperation, Comptroller Odusanya underscored the importance of synergy in achieving Nigeria’s trade facilitation goals.

“We are committed to strengthening our partnership with all actors in the export chain,” he said. “Issues surrounding Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) documentation that once hindered the smooth movement of export cargo have been addressed. Our renewed engagement with stakeholders has yielded improvements in process efficiency and built mutual trust.”

He also commended all Stakeholders for their active participation during the meeting and reiterated the Command’s commitment to fostering a trade-friendly environment.

“We will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders, including government agencies, terminal operators, and financial institutions, to remove bottlenecks and drive export growth,” the Controller said.

The Acting Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Rauf Kassim, gave a comprehensive presentation on the platform’s features and benefits.

He encouraged the Stakeholders (exporters, agents, and terminal operators) to adopt the platform for faster, more transparent, and efficient documentation.

Parallex Bank, the meeting’s sponsor, used the interactive session to introduce their tailored financial solutions for exporters, reaffirming their support for the non-oil export sector.

In response, Stakeholders at the meeting commended the Lilypond Export Command for simplifying and accelerating export processes in Nigeria, noting that the improvements had not only enhanced the operations of existing exporters but also encouraged new entrants and foreign investors.

They also raised concerns about persistent challenges at the terminals and shipping lines, including procedural delays at Tincan and Apapa, prolonged container transfer times, and limited vessel calls, all of which continue to hinder timely cargo evacuation and cause financial losses.