Customs Announces Extension of Overtime Cargo Clearance to 120 Days
• As Finance Ministry suspends implementation of 4% FOB
By Francis Ugwoke
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Monday announced the extension of overtime cargo clearance to 120 days.
Comptroller General of the Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who disclosed this during a meeting with stakeholders in Lagos explained that this is to “speed up cargo clearance, reduce delays, and enhance trade facilitation” in the ports.
Adeniyi added that the automation initiative was aimed at addressing the issues of constant delays which are caused as a result of abandonment of consignments and the bureaucratic bottlenecks involved in clearance extensions.
He also revealed that his office has received numerous requests for extension.
Adeniyi said that with the upgrade on the systems, cargo clearance request can now be handled digitally in what will reduce unnecessary paperwork and manual interventions.
According to him, the Service has created a help desk at the headquarters to prioritise clearance of project cargoes belonging to government agencies.
He further explained that the current reform is not just about generating revenue but also in strengthening the country’s position in international trade.
Describing importation as critical to Nigeria’s economic development, the CGC said the goal of the Service is to ensure that goods reach their rightful owners quickly and efficiently.
He disclosed that less than one per cent of goods that arrived the ports in 2024 were classified as overtime, adding that automation will eliminate the problem completely.
He assured that the sensitization programme will continue to hold in different zones, adding that the aim is to ensure that stakeholders adopt to the new process without stress.
He added, “This sensitisation is to ensure all stakeholders understand the system and work together for its success. The Overtime Cargo Automation programme is fully developed and ready for deployment.”
The programme was attended by representatives of terminal operators, importers, shipping companies, freight forwarders, among others.
Meanwhile, the federal government has suspended implementation of four percent Free on Board (FOB) recently levied by the Nigeria Customs Service on all imported goods.
This was announced by the Ministry of Finance.
The statement reads: “Pursuant to the powers vested upon the Honourable Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy under Part Il, Section 12 of the Nigeria Customs
Service Act, 2023 as the Chairman of the Board of Nigeria Customs Services, I write to
direct the immediate suspension of the implementation of the collection of 4% Free on
Board (FOB) recently levied by the Nigeria Customs Service on all imported goods.
“Following extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, trade experts, and
relevant government officials, it has become clear that the implementation of the 4%
FOB charge poses significant challenges to the Nigerian trade facilitation, environment
and economic stability. Many importers and businesses have raised concerns about the
increased financial burden this levy imposes, with potential adverse effects on inflation,
trade competitiveness, and the overall business climate in Nigeria.
“This suspension will provide an opportunity for comprehensive stakeholder engagement and a thorough review of the levy’s framework and its broader economic implications. The Ministry of Finance looks forward to working closely with the Service and all relevant parties to devise a more equitable and efficient revenue structure that Supports both revenue generation and economic growth and stability”.
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