The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to sensitize stakeholders on the implementation of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, emphasizing its role in enhancing efficiency, transparency, and innovation in customs operations.

The new legislation, which replaces the long-standing Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), was developed through extensive consultations with industry players, government agencies, and other key stakeholders. According to the NCS, their contributions were instrumental in shaping policies that align with global best practices.

As part of the implementation process, the NCS has introduced a 4% charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports, as outlined in Section 18 (1) of the NCSA 2023. This charge is based on the cost of imported goods, including transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading.

Acknowledging concerns over the simultaneous collection of the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee alongside the 4% FOB charge, the NCS assured stakeholders that discussions are ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address their concerns.

Under the leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that stakeholders are well-informed about the changes. It urged importers, regulatory bodies, and industry players to support the implementation of the NCSA 2023, emphasizing that the measures were developed through broad consultations to promote fair trade and efficient revenue management.

The statement was signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.