Customs set to implement Govt directive on 4% FOB charge
Say charge a provision in Customs Service Act not a recent imposition
Maureen Aguta
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday acknowledges receipt of the directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4 per cent Free-on-Board (FOB) charged on imported goods.
The Service in a statement by the National Public Relations Officer (NPRO), Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed it’s appreciation of the Ministry’s engagement on this 4 per cent FOB implementation, saying it remains committed to supporting government fiscal policies.
The statement reads in part: “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 further drew attention to ongoing media reports suggesting that the Service introduced the 4 per cent FOB only recently.
It said for clarity, “the Service wishes to emphasise that the National Assembly established the 4 per cent FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates “not less than 4 per cent 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 assured all stakeholders, including the trading public, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that their 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,” it concluded.