Customs Seeks Partnership with Manufacturers as 4% Import Levy Remains Suspended

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has opened fresh dialogue with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) following the suspension of the controversial four per cent Free on Board (FOB) charge on imported goods.

At a meeting held on Friday at the MAN Secretariat in Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said although the levy is provided for in the NCS Act 2023, its implementation cannot proceed without broad consultation with stakeholders.

“Your voices matter,” Adeniyi told the manufacturers.

“Your experiences help us shape our understanding of how customs procedures can either enable or constrain manufacturing excellence.”

The engagement comes days after the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, ordered the suspension of the levy in a circular dated September 15 and signed by Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, Raymond Omachi.

Adeniyi assured manufacturers that Customs is committed to supporting industrial growth, noting that the service has introduced structural trade facilitation measures, including plans for a one-stop shop to streamline interactions between businesses, Customs, and other regulatory agencies.

“This initiative will eliminate bureaucratic processes that frustrate legitimate business operations while maintaining robust security and compliance standards,” he said, adding that highway checkpoints have also been reduced to cut costs and delays.

He further highlighted ongoing investments in digital platforms such as the B’Odogwu system, designed to enable real-time cargo clearance, automated risk assessments, and seamless supply chain integration.

In his remarks, MAN President, Francis Meshioye, welcomed the renewed engagement, describing it as an opportunity to institutionalise dialogue between manufacturers and Customs.

“What we are having today is the enactment of that historic bond,” Meshioye said.

“This session will help us resolve operational issues and create a more inclusive policy atmosphere that benefits industry, Customs, and Nigerians at large.”

Meshioye also commended Adeniyi’s leadership since assuming office, noting his professionalism, innovation, and global recognition.