KEY POINTS
- Cyberattack hit Nigeria Customs Service ICT platform.
- Cargo clearance delays triggered demurrage losses.
- Stakeholders call for overhaul of B’Odogwu platform.
A cyberattack on the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) Information Communication Technology platform has disrupted cargo clearance across the country, leaving importers and licensed agents facing mounting demurrage bills.
The breach, which NCS officials said happened “some time ago,” hit the new B’Odogwu homegrown platform and also paralysed clearance operations at major ports. While Customs says the system is back online, losses are still piling up for operators.
Nigeria Customs Service cyberattack disrupts cargo clearance
NCS spokesman Maiwada Abdullahi confirmed the incident, saying the platform has been restored and fortified to make future breaches more difficult. Talks are ongoing with stakeholders about relief measures, including possible waivers for delayed consignments.
Calls grow for overhaul of B’Odogwu platform
Lucky Amiwero, president of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, criticised the platform’s defects, likening them to glitches seen before the B’Odogwu rollout. He urged the government to fix systemic flaws that have compounded storage costs and distorted business schedules.
Industry groups accused of staying silent
Amiwero also took aim at industry bodies including the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture for what he called a passive stance. Importers like Olawale Odu are pushing for the government to engage terminal operators and shipping companies to grant waivers and soften the blow.
