Tin Can Customs Sensitises Stakeholders on Implementation of 4% FOB Levy, B’Odogwu
...Generates N116bn Revenue in January
The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has engaged a broad spectrum of stakeholders to sensitise them on the implementation of the four per cent Free on Board (FOB) levy and the new Unified Customs Management System known as B’Odogwu.
This it said is part of continuous efforts and renewed drive to bring stakeholders up to speed on some of the emerging policies of the NCS.
The interactive sessions, which were held in the Command on Thursday 6 and Friday February 7, 2025, had in attendance, importers, Customs brokers, shipping agents, and other key players in the trade sector.
It also brought together experts from both the private and public sectors, and created an open forum for dialogue on the operational implications of these new initiatives.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka noted that these developments are aimed to streamline the Nigeria Customs’ processes, while improving efficiency and transparency within the trade and importation landscape.
The CAC emphasised the importance of these reforms, particularly the four per cent FOB levy, which applies to the value of goods at the point of import.
According to him, the four per cent FOB levy which was provided for in Section 18 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 was expected to boost the operational efficiency of the service in line with International best practices.
Comptroller Onyeka explained that the introduction of the B’Odogwu Clearance System was highlighted as a step towards modernising the Customs clearance process, reducing bottlenecks, and enhancing compliance, noting that the scheme will soon be launched in the Command.
He also disclosed that in January 2025, the Command generated a total of N116,412,735,766.23.
This, he said represented a significant increase when compared to the amount collected in January 2024, which was N88,430,126,122.76.
The difference between the two figures is N27,982,609,643.47, which corresponds to a 24.06% increase year-over-year.
Comptroller Onyeka expressed optimism regarding the continued growth, stating that the Command is on track to surpass its 2025 annual target of N1,524,699,999,478.52, as he is taking adequate steps to maintain the momentum throughout the year.
On some of his reforms introduced in the Command so far, Comptroller Onyeka said he is creating a more trade-friendly environment for all port activities to strive.
He reiterated that the era of multiple alerts are over, and stressed that honest declarations and thorough examinations must be emphasised.
The CAC promised to continue to engage with stakeholders, as this is a crucial part of ensuring the success of these initiatives.
“Through constant collaboration and feedback, we aim to address concerns, foster a better understanding of the processes, and ultimately ensure smooth implementation of these policies.”
Onyeka further added that the directives from the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi to initiate these consultations underscores the commitment of the service to transparency, effective communication, and partnership with stakeholders as it navigates through the evolving landscape of international trade.
