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Customs

Arewa Youths Forum tackles Customs over lopsided promotions of officers

CGC, Ali
—–alleges nepotism, favourism 
 Story by Muhammad Sabiu( Kaduna )and Kelvin Kagbare( Lagos)
Even as top Customs top brass grapple with technical issues militating against the economically rewarding deployment of the Vehicle Identification Number, (VIN), there are indications of turbulence in administrative matters likely to significantly jeopardize operational efficiency of Customs if not immediately looked into and resolved.
This Administrative hoopla has been brought to public attention by the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum,  AYCF,  re-echoing the need for the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, to reconsider the policy of elevating its officers who joined Customs between 2009 and 2015 and leaving behind those who joined the Service between 1992 and 1994.
The Arewa youths are of the view that officers of the Service  who have spent close to thirty years on the same rank, through no fault of theirs must be given right of fair hearing and treated justlyⁿ
The AYCF put the blame squarely on the doorstep of the Federal Government which placed an embargo on recruitment within the period.
In a statement issued by its National President, Yerima Shettima in Kaduna, the group said “It has come to our notice that the management of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to pursue a policy of exclusion in the promotion of its personnel, based on illegitimate criteria”.
“We gathered that the plan in the offing is to exclusively promote personnel who joined the service between the year 2009 and 2015″
Decrying the selective promotion, the AYCF said “Customs officers who have been on the same rank for decades must be considered for promotion if the principles of Justice, Fairness and Equity have a place in our society”.
“The action of the Service is now predicated on the pedestrian argument that there has been no fresh recruitment into the Service between 1992 and 1994, up until 2015 when the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan lifted the embargo”.
To this end, the Arewa Youths noted that the gap created by the embargo is not the fault of the officers who gave all of their mental and physical energies in the service of this nation for over three decades.
“We find totally unacceptable, any policy that will allow promotion of Customs Service personnel through the backdoor”.
“We expect that the philosophy of respect for the procedure, which President Muhammadu Buhari has been known for should be allowed to prevail in the circumstance”.
Expressing its disappointment over the non-promotion of some officers in the Service, the AYCF notes further;
“We are disturbed that the Nigeria Customs Service could even contemplate this selective and unprofessional method of promoting its personnel without recourse to established procedure”.
“We find it quite disappointing that the NCS would pursue this unacceptable method, apparently without recourse to the office of the Minister of Finance and National Planning or even the advice of either the office of Head of Service of the Federation or that of Secretary to the Government of the Federation”.
“We call on the National Assembly  to also step in, to ensure that this controversial and dangerously selective policy does not see the light of the day.”
The AYCF  categorically stated that in view of the importance of the NCS to national security,  the DSS needs to be part of the process that will promote respect for the rule of law in rewarding personnel of the Service in general and on the philosophy of first-among-equals.
The Arewa youths, therefore, urged the Service to consider the promotion of officers employed by the Service from 1990 to date from the Rank and File to their rank of Assistant Comptrollers and beyond.
They say this will create a sense of belonging which will bring about discipline among officers in the Service.
Fundamentally,  the AYCF observed that the old officers who did not rise in rank over the long period of time have been very diligent and committed to the Service but, through no fault of theirs remain stuck in rank.
“It was the gross act of corruption, nepotism and favouritism in Nigeria Customs Service that stagnated the promotion of the old officers”
The Arewa youths averred that management of the Service is paving way for their recently employed children from the year 2009 to date.
They, therefore, call on the Federal Ministry of Finance and the National Assembly to as a matter of urgency look into this matter with the deserved sense of urgency for the national good.
The AYCF declared that the automatic one step ahead of only newly employed officers will destroy the morale of experienced officers in the Service.
“The consequences of such action or inaction will be catastrophic to the Nigeria Customs Service,” the AYC said.
When contacted on the unfortunate development, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, DC Timi Bomodi said “The Service is looking at options to bridge its generational gap occasioned by years of not recruiting. That is only one of its options. Speculating on the intentions of Customs Management is at best a distraction for now”.
As challenges and issues assume a worrisome projectile for the Service, concerned stakeholders are calling for a thorough reevaluation of all issues and addressing them in the interest of socio-cultural national cohesion and wellbeing.
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Customs

Customs buckles as it suspends implementation of 4 per cent FOB charge

Funso OLOJO 
In a manner demonstrative of a listening administration,the management of the Nigeria Customs service has suspended the implementation of the controversial 4 per cent Free on Board(FOB) charge on imports.
The suspension followed the outcry that greeted the implementation of the novel charge which importers and their agents said was jumped on them by the customs without notice nor consultation.
To allow enough time for stakeholders’ consultation and sensitization, the Customs said the suspension was sequel to the ongoing discussion with the Minister of Finance, Mr Adewale Edun.
In a press statement by the Customs management , the service disclosed that the timing of the suspension aligns with the exit of the contract agreement with the Service providers, including Webb Fontaine, which were previously funded through the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS).
” The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) hereby announces the suspension of the
implementation of 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) value on imports as provided in Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCSA) 2023.
“This is sequel to ongoing
consultations with the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Olawale Edun and other Stakeholders.
“This suspension will enable comprehensive stakeholder engagement and consultations regarding the Act’s implementation framework.
“This presents an opportunity to
review our revenue framework holistically.
“Under the previous funding arrangement repealed by the NCSA 2023, separating the 1% CISS and 7% cost of collection created operational inefficiencies and funding gaps in customs
modernisation efforts.
“The new Act addresses these
challenges by consolidating “not less than 4% of the Free-on-Board value of
imports,” designed to ensure sustainable funding for critical customs operations and modernisation initiatives.
“This transition period will allow the Service to optimise the management of these frameworks to serve our stakeholders and the nation’s interests better.
“The Act further empowers the Service to modernise its operations through
various technological innovations.
“Specifically, Section 28 of the NCSA 2023 authorises developing and maintaining electronic systems for information exchange between the Service, Other Government Agencies, and traders.
“The Service is already implementing several digital solutions, including the recently deployed B’Odogwu clearance system, which stakeholders are benefiting from through faster clearance times and improved transparency.
“Other innovative solutions authorised
by the Act include; Single Window implementation (Section 33), Risk management systems (Section 32), Non-intrusive inspection equipment (Section 59) and Electronic data exchange facilities (Section 33(3)).
“The suspension period will allow the Service to further engage with
stakeholders while ensuring proper alignment with the Act’s provisions for
sustainable funding of these modernisation initiatives.
 “The NCS remains committed to implementing the provisions of the Act in a manner that best serves our stakeholders while fulfilling our revenue generation and trade facilitation mandate.
“We will communicate the revised implementation timeline following the conclusion of stakeholder consultations” the service promised.
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Customs

We feel your pains — Customs seeks support of stakeholders over introduction of 4 percent levy on customs operations

Funso OLOJO
Nigeria Customs service has explained the rationale behind the introduction of the 4 percent  levy on the value of imported goods which has now become a subject of controversy among the freight forwarders.
The levy, which is the 4 percent Free on Board (FOB) of imported goods, was introduced into the assessment notice of a cargo declarant.
This has caused an outrage among stakeholders, especially the freight forwarders who have vowed to resist it.
However, in its official reaction to the new fee, the Customs management sought the understanding of the agitated stakeholders, acknowledging their importance relevance and invaluable contributions to the emergence of the new Customs Act.
Explaining the rationale behind the new fee, the Customs said this was in line with the provisions of the Customs Act of 2023.
“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) proudly recognises the invaluable
contributions of stakeholders in shaping and actualising the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 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”
The customs also acknowledged the  concerns raised by stakeholders over the
sustained collection of 1 pet cent 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” the service pledged
 “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, the service concluded.
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Customs

ANLCA divided over increment in CISS fee

Funso OLOJO 

There seems to be a discordant tune from the umbrella body of the freight forwarders in Nigeria, the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents(ANLCA) over the increment of the Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme(CISS).
It would be recalled that the Customs brokers woke up on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 to discover that the CISS fee, which used to be 1 per cent of the value of Import has been jerked up to 4 per cent.
The increment,which they claimed was slammed on them without a prior notice, has therefore sparked off heightened tension among the agitated freight forwarders who were said to be calling for a showdown with the customs.
While some of them were hinting at possible shut down of the Port to give vent to their anger and frustration, the National President of ANLCA, Mr Emenike Nwokeoji, has backed the decision of the Customs to increase the CISS fee.
Apparently scolding those who are allegedly “spoiling for war” with the Customs for their lack of knowledge of Customs law, Emenike said the Customs acted within the 2024 Customs Act to make the increment.
“I am not aware that ANLCA is protesting over the increment of the CISS from one per cent to four per cent.
“What I am aware of is that the ANLCA NECOM is meeting to take a decision on the increment.

“I, however, know that the increment is backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. The increment is in the Act. That is where they brought it from” Emenike declared.

He however expressed his disappointment over the manner the customs jumped the increment on Customs brokers.
“They( Customs )should have, however, held sensitisation meetings to ensure all stakeholders are well aware.

“The increment started today. NECOM will be meeting very soon to take a stance on the new development.”, the ANLCA high Chief stated.

His stance on the issue contradicted the position of Alhaji Mukaila Abdullaziz, the former Sole Administrator of ANLCA who believed the increment by the customs may spark off an outrage among freight forwarders.
Also, Segun Oduntan, the Vice President of ANLCA holds contrary view with his principal, Mr Emenike when he allegedly issued 24 – hour ultimatum to the Customs to reverse the increase or get prepared to contend with the wrath of the irate customs brokers.
“We noticed the NCS has introduced 4% and renamed it Customs Operation Finance as appeared on this assessment.
“The Customs CG needs to call for an emergency meeting within 48 hours to address this development because it is already causing uproar in the freight forwarding system.

“All the freight forwarding associations would have to come together on this matter” Oduntan thundered .

Kayode Farinto, the former Acting National President of ANLCA however advised freight forwarders not to pay the increased tariff, asking the Customs authority to give the Customs brokers 90- day window through which the trading public will be adequately sensitized about the new fee
Meanwhile, the customs authority has said it would respond to the development as soon as possible in order to douse the gathering tension.
The CISS is a regulatory fee charged by Customs on all imported goods into Nigeria.
The fee, which used to be 1 per cent of the FOB (Free on Board) value of the shipment, has now been adjusted to 4 per cent, according to Section 18 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
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