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Nigeria Customs Service Commends Stakeholders for Key Role in Shaping NCS Act 2023
By prince Benson Davies
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has expressed its profound appreciation for the strategic role played by stakeholders in the emergence and implementation of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
This landmark legislation, which replaces the long-standing
Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) and other related laws is a product
of extensive consultations, constructive dialogue, and collaborative efforts with key
industry players, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Their insights,
expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a
robust legal framework that enhances efficiency, promotes innovation and strengthens transparency in customs operations.
In line with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of NCSA 2023, the NCS is
implementing a 4% charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports. The FOB
charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including
cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of
loading, is essential to driving the effective operation of the Service.
Furthermore, the NCS acknowledges concerns raised by stakeholders over the
sustained collection of 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS)
fee (a regulatory charge imposed for funding Nigeria’s Destination Inspection
Scheme) alongside the 4% FOB charge. As a responsive and responsible government agency, the Service wishes to assure the general public that extensive consultation is ongoing with the
Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised by our esteemed stakeholders.
Under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale
Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirms its commitment to transparency, fair
trade practices, and efficient revenue management. All stakeholders are urged to
support this legally binding initiative, as the measures introduced in alignment with the NCSA
2023 reflects a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry
players, importers, and regulatory bodies.
