The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has cancelled import declarations made during the initial implementation of the 4 percent free-on-board (FOB) levy.
On February 11, the NCS suspended implementation of the 4 percent charge on the FOB value of imports — six days after announcing the levy.
In a statement on Monday ,Abdullahi Maiwada, assistant comptroller and national public relations officer at the NCS, said the measure is necessary to ensure clarity, maintain consistency, and prevent any disruptions in clearance processes.
“Sequel to the earlier press release announcing the suspension of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charge on imports, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to inform stakeholders that all import declarations made during the initial implementation period have been cancelled,” Maiwada said.
“This measure is necessary to ensure clarity, maintain consistency in customs operations, and prevent any disruptions in clearance processes.
“Affected importers, customs agents, and stakeholders are, therefore, required to recapture their declarations to proceed with the clearance of their goods.
“In addition, all stakeholders affected are urged to promptly recapture their entries through the designated customs processing platforms.
“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.
“The Service remains steadfast in its commitment to implementing government fiscal policies in alignment with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 through robust consultation and dialogue with all stakeholders.”
Maiwada said the decision to cancel previous declarations and allow recapturing aligns with the service’s broader effort to become a public-centric organisation that ensures efficient service delivery.
He added that under the leadership of Bashir Adeniyi, comptroller-general of customs, the service remains committed to demonstrating openness and transparency in its engagements with stakeholders.
Maiwada encouraged traders to take advantage of the opportunity to avoid any further delays in clearing their consignments.