The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the suspension of 4% Free On Board (FOB) charges on imported goods. NCS in a statement said the suspension in compliance with the directives of the Federal Ministry of Finance.

The statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, said the Service “remains committed to supporting government fiscal policies”.

The statement reads:

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) acknowledges receipt of the directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charged on imported goods. The Service appreciates the Ministry’s engagement on this matter and remains committed 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.

The NCS remains optimistic 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 Service assures all stakeholders, including the trading public, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that our operations will continue without any disruption. We remain firmly committed to delivering efficient service, upholding international best practices and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation.