The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the cancellation of all import declarations made during the initial implementation period of the now-suspended 4% Free-on-Board charge on imports.
This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada. He explained that the decision was taken to ensure clarity, maintain consistency in customs operations, and prevent disruptions in the clearance process.
Importers, customs agents, and stakeholders affected by the cancellation are required to recapture their declarations to proceed with clearing their goods. Maiwada urged them to do so promptly through designated customs processing platforms, assuring that measures have been put in place to ensure a seamless process.
Customs commands across the country have been directed to assist and provide necessary clarifications to those needing support. The NCS emphasized its commitment to implementing government fiscal policies in alignment with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 through continued consultation and dialogue with stakeholders.
Maiwada highlighted that the decision to allow recapturing of declarations is part of the agency’s broader effort to enhance efficiency and public engagement. Under the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, the service aims to maintain openness and transparency in its operations.
Stakeholders were encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to prevent further delays in clearing their consignments.
Earlier this month, the Nigeria Customs Service suspended the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board charge, following widespread criticism from businesses struggling with high operating costs. The charge, calculated based on the value of imported goods and transportation costs up to the port of loading, would have increased import expenses, potentially raising consumer prices.
Maiwada noted that the suspension allows for a comprehensive review of the revenue framework to address concerns while ensuring effective trade facilitation.
