Nigeria Customs cancels import declarations after controversial levy suspension

In a move aimed at restoring order after a week of confusion, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has canceled all import declarations made during the brief implementation of the now-suspended 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) levy.

The decision, announced on Tuesday, comes just days after the NCS put a halt to the levy on February 11, a mere six days after introducing it. The charge, which was calculated on the FOB value of imports, sparked widespread concern among importers and customs agents, many of whom feared it would drive up costs and disrupt the flow of goods.

Abdullahi Maiwada, the assistant comptroller and national public relations officer of the NCS, said the cancellation was necessary to “ensure clarity, maintain consistency in customs operations, and prevent any disruptions in clearance processes.”

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With this cancellation, affected importers and customs agents must now recapture their declarations through the designated customs processing platforms to proceed with clearing their goods. Maiwada assured that the NCS had put measures in place to make the process as seamless as possible.

“Customs Commands nationwide have been directed to provide the necessary assistance and clarifications to importers and agents requiring support during this period,” he said.

Maiwada encouraged traders to take advantage of the opportunity to recapture their entries swiftly, warning that any delays could further complicate the clearance of consignments.

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