Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.

Ahead of the scheduled commencement of the collection of the new four per cent Free On Board FOB, Levy imposed on all imported goods by the Federal Government, the Nigeria Customs Service is planning a massive sensitisation of stakeholders. The Service has ordered all its Area Commands across the federation to begin immediate and massive sensitisation and education of stakeholders, especially importers, clearing agents and other relevant operators in the country’s shipping and maritime industry to enhance a hitch-free collection.

In a circular No. FATS/DCG/2025/01 dated February 5, 2025 and signed by the Deputy Comptroller General in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, B.M. Jibo, on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs and entitled: ‘Sensitisation of importers and stakeholders on the collection of the four pre cent FOB Levy’, has directed all Customs Area Controllers to take proactive steps to sensitise importers, clearing agents and other relevant stakeholders on the modalities for the collection of the new levy.

The circular, which also directed them to treat the matter as urgent, noted that the new levy is designed to enhance revenue collection and ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Customs Act, 2023.

It therefore directed Customs Area Commands to organise stakeholders’ meetings, workshops, sensitisation and enlightenment sessions to provide clarity on the purpose, process and compliance requirements for the collection of the four per cent levy.

The circular reads in part: “In line with the implementation of the four per cent FOB Levy, it is imperative that all Customs Area Controllers take proactive steps to engage and educate importers, clearing agents and relevant stakeholders on the modalities for its collection.

“The four per cent FOB Levy is aimed at enhancing revenue generation and compliance with the NCS Act 2023. As such, all Area Commands are directed to organise stakeholders’ meetings, workshops and sensitisation sessions to provide clarity on the purpose, process and compliance requirements for the four per cent FOB levy collection.

“Your cooperation in this regard is essential for the successful implementation of this directive. Kindly ensure strict compliance and provide periodic updates on the level of stakeholder engagement and compliance rates.”