ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a proactive step to address the concerns of stakeholders in the maritime industry regarding the newly introduced 4% charge on the Free On Board (FOB) value of imports.
This move comes after stakeholders raised agitations over the charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading.
In a statement issued by the National Spokesman, AC Abdullahi Maiwada, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the NCS disclosed that it has consulted with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address the concerns raised by stakeholders, noting that the agency recognised the invaluable contributions of the Critical Stakeholders in trade cycle and in shaping and actualising the NCS.
The agency urged stakeholders to support the initiative as the measures was introduced in accordance with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023 which reflects a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry players, importers, and regulatory bodies.
It equally emphasized that the 4% FOB charge is essential to driving its effective operations.
It also acknowledged concerns over the sustained collection of the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee alongside the 4% FOB charge, assuring stakeholders that extensive consultation is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised.
The Service further reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fair trade practices, and efficient revenue management, under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) proudly recognises the invaluable contributions of stakeholders in shaping and actualising the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023. This landmark legislation, which replaces the long-standing Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) and other related laws is a product of extensive consultations, constructive dialogue, and collaborative efforts with key industry players, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
“Their insights, expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a robust legal framework that enhances efficiency, promotes innovation and strengthens transparency in customs operations.
“In line with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of NCSA 2023, the NCS is implementing a 4% charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports. The FOB charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading, is essential to driving the effective operation of the Service.
“Furthermore, the NCS acknowledges concerns raised by stakeholders over the sustained collection of 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee (a regulatory charge imposed for funding Nigeria’s Destination Inspection Scheme) alongside the 4% FOB charge. As a responsive and responsible government agency, the Service wishes to assure the general public that extensive consultation is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised by our esteemed stakeholders.
“Under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirms its commitment to transparency, fair trade practices, and efficient revenue management. All stakeholders are urged to support this legally binding initiative, as the measures introduced in alignment with the NCSA 2023 reflects a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry players, importers, and regulatory bodies,” the statement read.
