NCS Acknowledges Ministry of Finance Directive on 4% FOB Implementation
ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confirmed the receipt of the directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charged on imported goods.
In a statement signed on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, by the National spokesperson, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS informed that with this development, it has begun immediate consultation with the supervisory Ministry to seek guidance on alternative measures to ensure continuity of Service delivery to all stakeholders.
It reaffirmed that NCS remains optimistic about ongoing discussions with the Federal Ministry of Finance and other relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised while ensuring that the Service’s statutory obligations are met effectively.
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“We look forward to constructive engagement that will ultimately serve the best interests of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, enhance revenue generation, and support the nation’s economic growth objectives through efficient customs administration,” the statement reads.
The statement further drew attention to viral media reports suggesting that the Service introduced the 4% FOB only recently.
It partly reads, “For clarity, the Service wishes to emphasise that the National Assembly established the 4% FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates “not less than 4% of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices” as a statutory funding mechanism for the Service’s operations.
“All stakeholders, including the trading public, licensed customs agents, and international partners, are thus reassured that operations will continue without any disruption. “We remain firmly committed to delivering efficient service, upholding international best practices and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation,” the Statement concluded.