ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has called on the National Assembly to review existing import waivers and aspects of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, saying the measures are necessary to strengthen revenue generation, improve trade regulation and address emerging economic realities.
The Comptroller-General of Customs said the current import waiver regime has significant fiscal implications for the country, reducing potential government revenue that could otherwise be invested in critical infrastructure and public services. He noted that while import waivers are designed to support strategic sectors of the economy, there is a need to reassess their implementation to ensure they achieve their intended objectives without placing undue pressure on national finances.
According to the Service, Nigeria’s evolving trade environment, changing global economic conditions and increasing demands on government revenue require periodic reviews of policies governing customs administration. Customs officials argued that updating relevant provisions of the 2023 Act would enable the Service to respond more effectively to modern trade challenges and improve operational efficiency.
The NCS also stressed the importance of aligning customs regulations with international best practices while safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests. It maintained that a comprehensive review would strengthen border management, facilitate legitimate trade and enhance efforts to combat smuggling, revenue leakages and other forms of economic crimes.
The Service explained that import waivers should be carefully targeted to sectors where they provide measurable economic benefits, including job creation, industrial development and increased local production. It warned that indiscriminate or poorly monitored waivers could distort competition, reduce government earnings and undermine domestic industries.
Customs officials further called for closer collaboration between the National Assembly, the executive arm of government and other stakeholders in reviewing the legal framework governing customs operations. They said such cooperation would ensure that future amendments reflect current economic realities while supporting Nigeria’s broader fiscal and development goals.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to improving revenue collection without disrupting legitimate business activities. It noted that ongoing reforms within the Service are aimed at simplifying customs procedures, embracing technology and strengthening transparency in cargo clearance and border operations.
Economic analysts have observed that import duty waivers remain an important policy tool for encouraging investment and supporting priority sectors. However, they also argue that regular assessments are necessary to determine whether beneficiaries continue to meet the objectives for which the incentives were granted.
The NCS expressed confidence that a review of the import waiver regime and relevant sections of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 would create a more balanced system that promotes trade, protects government revenue and supports sustainable economic growth. The Service pledged to continue working with policymakers and stakeholders to develop a customs administration framework capable of meeting Nigeria’s changing economic and trade needs.
