BY IRIBHOGBE MONSURAT BUKUNOLA
As part of its commitment to supporting public sector digital transformation, Galaxy Backbone Limited recently paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Headquarters in Abuja to explore a strategic collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Broadcasting Network (NCBN).
The delegation, led by Mr Ifeatu Anafulu, Head of Marketing and Business Intelligence, was received by the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada.
Mr Anafulu expressed appreciation for the warm reception, explaining that Galaxy Backbone’s role as a government-owned technology provider aligns with the Service’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives.
“We understand that Customs is currently undergoing a major transformation under the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), and as an agency that provides backbone ICT infrastructure for the Federal Government, we are here to explore how we can add value to your operations,” Mr Anafulu said. “From secure cloud storage to robust data protection mechanisms, Galaxy Backbone can support your evolving digital needs.”
He further stressed the importance of data security and digital tools in modern customs operations.
“Efficient data management and secure communication networks are crucial for modern Customs administrations, especially in a global trade environment increasingly driven by digital tools and cross-border integration,” he added.
In response, Assistant Comptroller Maiwada commended the Galaxy Backbone team for their proactive approach to inter-agency collaboration.
“The Nigeria Customs Service is undergoing a comprehensive technological revolution anchored on the Trade Modernisation Project,” Mr Maiwada said. “At the heart of this reform is the deployment of an indigenous platform, B’Odogwu, a Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), which we built from ground zero.”
He highlighted the significance of the new platform as part of the Service’s broader reform agenda.
“Our goal is not just automation but true modernisation, one that is built on indigenous expertise, tailored to our unique trade environment, and driven by a strong commitment to national development and solving our indigenous challenges,” he added.
AC Maiwada noted that partnerships with ICT providers like Galaxy Backbone are key to securing and scaling Customs’ digital architecture. He identified secure data storage, platform hosting, and high-speed connectivity for the Customs broadcasting network as potential areas for partnership.
The courtesy visit concluded with a tour of the NCBN facilities, led by its Chief Operating Officer, Mr Abubakar Ardo. The team explored the studio’s broadcast, editing, and production departments located within the Customs Headquarters.
Mr Ardo described NCBN as a vital public communication tool for the Service’s reform messaging.
“We are committed to projecting the Service’s reform agenda, enhancing public awareness, and fostering stakeholder engagement through high-quality multimedia content as well as creating a niche for ourselves within the business sector,” he said.
He expressed hope that future cooperation with Galaxy Backbone would further enhance NCBN’s technical capacity and audience reach.