Customs
Customs intercepts N4.180 billion worth of illicit drugs at Tin Can port

Funso Olojo
The Tin Can command of the Nigeria Customs Service has seized two 40-footer containers of illicit drugs of 01x40ft container of regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 01x40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances.
Addressing a news conference on the seizure on Friday, June 14th, 2024 in Lagos, the Comptroller General of the service, Adewale Adeniyi, said the interception was a result of fruitful collaboration between the customs and other sister agencies, especially the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA).
According to the CGC, the unwholesome importations were from Canada and India respectively.
The breakdown of the seizure comprised of 3 plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072 kilograms (kg) seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada. The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3, 216,000,000.00 (Three Billion Two Hundred Sixteen Million Naira Only)
The second illicit container comprised 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India were seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty-Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty-Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty-Eight Naira Only).
” It is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have consistently yielded positive results.
” Recall that in the past, I have reiterated that the collaborative synergy between NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of our agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by smuggling” the Customs boss declared.
Adeniyi noted that the seizure highlights a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in our country.
“However, it also is evident of the NCS’s resolve to remain vigilant and showcase our ability to intercept and disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm our nation.
“The NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and the disruption of criminal networks.
” We urge all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, assured that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public” the CGC stated.
Continue Reading
Customs
Apapa Customs concludes three-day refresher training for promoted senior officers

Funso OLOJO
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command has concluded
a three-day refresher training programme for its newly promoted Deputy Controllers (DCs) and Assistant Controllers (ACs).
Declaring the training open on Monday, 10 February 2025, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, emphasised the Command’s commitment to continuous professional development.
“For newly promoted DCs, you are captains of vital entry and exit points and responsible for overseeing all operations, among others.
” Your leadership skill must be instrumental in optimising efficiency and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism within your terminals”, the CAC stated.
He also highlighted the newly promoted Assistant Comptrollers’ crucial role.
“Similarly, for the ACs, you are gatekeepers responsible for the final checks and approvals that allow goods to move in and out of the port.
“Your attention to detail and understanding of regulation, among others, is paramount in preventing revenue leakages and ensuring national security”, he added.
Comptroller Olomu described the training as an interactive forum for sharing best practices, addressing challenges, and clarifying any ambiguities in Customs procedures.
He assured of the Service’s management team’s commitment to providing the necessary tools and support required for the success of personnel.
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.
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.
-
Headlines3 months ago
Another boat capsizes in Kogi as NIWA sends team to rescue missing passengers.
-
Economy2 months ago
EFCC under fire over failure to disclose identity of ex- government official owner of forfeited Abuja estate
-
Customs2 months ago
Customs gets green light to recruit 3,927 officers in 2025 to bridge personnel gap.
-
Headlines2 months ago
NIWA issues safety guidelines for accident- free yuletide, new year boat navigation on Nigeria’s waterways
-
Headlines3 months ago
Oyetola pledges government’s commitment to smooth trade practices under AFCFTA
-
Headlines3 months ago
House of Reps pledges adequate funding for completion of Lokoja River Port