The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have applauded the federal government’s decision to suspend the recently reintroduced 4.0 percent Free-on-Board (FOB) levy on imports, which came into effect on August 4, 2025.
The Director General of MAN said the suspension brought immediate relief to manufacturers and the wider business community, describing it as a timely intervention that prevented a “self-inflicted price escalation” in the economy. He stressed that the charge would have raised the cost of raw materials, machinery, and spare parts that are not locally available, further burdening manufacturers.
He expressed confidence that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) would quickly implement the directive by removing the levy from its portal. He added that MAN is committed to partnering with government and the NCS to streamline trade processes, reduce port costs, and promote fiscal transparency.
According to him, the reversal is essential to reducing the cost of local production, strengthening value chains, and driving economic diversification. He urged government to conduct an inclusive review of existing surcharges and organize broad stakeholder consultations to determine fair and sustainable trade charges.
Similarly, the AON praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Finance for listening to industry concerns and acting swiftly. The association said implementing the levy would have severely strained airlines by raising operating costs in an already fragile sector.
AON commended the suspension as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, protecting critical industries, and promoting sustainable growth. It noted that the intervention will safeguard jobs, ease inflationary pressures, and help Nigeria remain competitive globally.
Both associations reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with government in advancing industrialization, strengthening aviation, and creating a more conducive business environment to support long-term economic growth.
