The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has suspended the implementation of the controversial four percent Free-on-Board (FOB) charge on imported goods, following a directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance.
In a statement on Tuesday, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada said consultations are ongoing with the ministry to consider alternative funding options that will sustain customs operations during the suspension.
“The Service appreciates the Ministry’s engagement on this matter and remains committed to supporting government fiscal policies,” Maiwada noted.
Customs Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, clarified that the four percent FOB charge was not arbitrarily imposed.
He explained that the levy is backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, Section 18(1)(a), which provides
“not less than four percent of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices” as part of the Service’s statutory funding mechanism.
Despite the suspension, stakeholders including importers, clearing agents, and trade partners have been assured that operations will continue without disruption.
The Service also reaffirmed its commitment to revenue generation and trade facilitation in line with Nigeria’s economic growth agenda.
The suspension comes after widespread criticism from traders and economic groups who argued that the levy would further increase the cost of importation in the country
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