The Nigeria Customs Service has held a high-level meeting with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria to discuss the suspended 4% Free on Board levy on imported goods.
Speaking at the MAN Secretariat in Ikeja, Lagos, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized that while the 4% FOB charge is backed by the NCS Act 2023, its implementation would only proceed after extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders. Adeniyi highlighted the importance of balancing government revenue interests with policies that support industrial growth.
The meeting followed a directive from the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, instructing Customs to suspend the policy. This directive was contained in a circular signed by Raymond Omachi, Permanent Secretary for Special Duties.
Adeniyi reiterated the NCS’s commitment to industrial development, revealing ongoing structural improvements to trade facilitation, including the creation of one-stop shops to simplify engagement between manufacturers, Customs, and regulatory agencies. He also announced a reduction in highway checkpoints to minimize delays and costs.
The Customs boss noted that digital transformation remains central to their strategy, with platforms like B’Odogwu enabling real-time clearance, automated risk assessment, and better supply chain integration.
In his remarks, Francis Meshioye, President of MAN, commended Adeniyi for his professionalism and innovative leadership. He called for the institutionalization of the engagement to foster inclusive policymaking between the manufacturing sector and Customs.
