By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confirmed that it has received instructions from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) levy on imported goods.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Service expressed appreciation to the Ministry for its intervention and assured that it remains committed to aligning with government fiscal policies.
Following the directive, the NCS disclosed that it has commenced consultations with the supervisory Ministry to obtain guidance on alternative steps to sustain uninterrupted service delivery to stakeholders.
According to the Service, it is hopeful that ongoing talks with the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders will produce solutions that balance public concerns with its statutory duties.
It added that the objective is to serve the national interest, boost revenue generation, and support economic growth through efficient customs administration.
Addressing media reports that the 4% FOB was a recent creation of the Service, the statement clarified: “The National Assembly established the 4% FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates ‘not less than 4% of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices’ as a statutory funding mechanism for the Service’s operations.”
The NCS further reassured stakeholders, including the trading community, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that operations will remain unaffected.
It pledged to continue offering efficient service, uphold international standards, and contribute to national economic growth through effective revenue collection and trade facilitation.
The statement was signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.