By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has annulled all import declarations made during the implementation of the now-suspended four percent Free-on-Board (FOB) charge on imports.
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed the cancellation, adding that the decision followed the suspension of the charge on February 11.
The FOB charge was previously calculated based on the total value of imported goods, including transportation costs up to the port of loading.
However, the policy faced widespread criticism from industry experts and stakeholders, who warned that it could worsen economic conditions and contribute to inflation.
According to Maiwada, the annulment of these import declarations was necessary to “ensure clarity, maintain consistency in customs operations, and prevent disruptions in the clearance process.”
He added that all affected importers, customs agents, and stakeholders must recapture their declarations to proceed with clearing their goods.
“Affected importers, customs agents, and stakeholders are required to recapture their declarations to proceed with the clearance of their goods,” the statement read.
To facilitate the process, NCS has instructed its commands nationwide to provide necessary assistance and clarifications to importers and agents.
Maiwada noted that the service remains committed to enforcing government fiscal policies under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 while maintaining continuous consultation with stakeholders.
He also revealed that the decision aligns with the NCS’s broader objective of improving service delivery and fostering a public-centric approach.
“Under the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, the service is committed to openness and transparency,” he stated.
Maiwada urged traders to take advantage of this adjustment to avoid delays in clearing their consignments.