Nigeria Customs Begins Consultations on Alternative Measures Amid Suspension of 4% FOB Implementation
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced consultations on alternative measures following the suspension of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charge on imported goods.
This comes after the Federal Ministry of Finance suspended the implementation of the 4% FOB charge on Monday.
According to a statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada on Tuesday, the Service affirmed that it received the directive from the Ministry.
AC Maiwada appreciated the Ministry’s engagement on the matter and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting government fiscal policies.
“Pursuant to this directive, the Service has begun immediate consultation with the supervisory Ministry to seek guidance on alternative measures during this suspension to ensure continuity of service delivery to all stakeholders,” he stated.
The NCS expressed optimism about ongoing discussions with the Federal Ministry of Finance and other relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised while ensuring that the Service’s statutory obligations are met effectively.
“We look forward to constructive engagement that will ultimately serve the best interests of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, enhance revenue generation, and support the nation’s economic growth objectives through efficient customs administration.
“It is also necessary to draw attention to ongoing media reports suggesting that the Service introduced the 4% FOB only recently. For clarity, the Service wishes to emphasise that the National Assembly established the 4% FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates ‘not less than 4% of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices’ as a statutory funding mechanism for the Service’s operations,” the spokesperson explained.
The Service assured all stakeholders, including the trading public, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that its operations will continue without any disruption.
It reiterated its commitment to delivering efficient service, upholding international best practices, and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation.
