‘Preventing any Disruptions!’ Nigerians Celebrate as Customs Revoke 4% Import Charges

OwelekeTV (News) — Nigeria Customs Service Revokes 4% FOB Import Charge, Directs Stakeholders to Update Declarations

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reversed its earlier directive imposing a 4% Free on Board (FOB) import charge, urging all affected stakeholders to recapture their declarations to facilitate the clearance of goods.

The decision, according to the NCS, was taken to enhance clarity, maintain consistency in customs operations, and prevent any disruptions in the cargo clearance process.

A statement released by the National Public Relations Officer on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, emphasized the importance of stakeholders acting swiftly to update their entries using the designated customs processing platforms.

“In addition, all stakeholders affected are urged to promptly recapture their entries through the designated customs processing platforms,”

the statement read.

To ensure a smooth transition, the NCS has assured traders, importers, and clearing agents that adequate measures have been put in place to make the adjustment process seamless.

Customs commands across the country have been instructed to provide necessary assistance and clarifications to any importers and agents who require support.

“The NCS has put measures in place to ensure this process is seamless. Customs commands nationwide have been directed to provide the necessary assistance and clarifications to importers and agents requiring support during this period,”

Maiwada stated.

Related Stories:

Smuggling Scandal: Reps Probe Customs Over Border Operations

Customs Uncovers Alarming Cache of Smuggled Arms in Lagos

Nigeria Customs Service Hits Historic Revenue Milestone with N6.1 Trillion Collection in 2024

The customs service had previously announced the implementation of the 4% FOB charge as part of its revenue collection strategy.

However, concerns were raised by importers and other industry stakeholders regarding the policy’s potential impact on trade facilitation. The NCS’s decision to withdraw the charge is seen as a response to these concerns, demonstrating its commitment to balancing revenue generation with the ease of doing business.

By rolling back the import charge, the NCS aims to create a more transparent and predictable customs environment that supports importers while ensuring efficiency in cargo clearance procedures.

The agency continues to encourage compliance with customs regulations to foster smoother operations at Nigeria’s ports and borders.