The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to sanction importers and clearing agents who fail to comply with customs regulations, part of intensified efforts to strengthen compliance and protect government revenue.
Under the renewed enforcement strategy, Customs will use strengthened risk assessment systems, post-clearance audits, and improved intelligence cooperation to identify and penalise under-declaration, under-payment of duties, false declarations, and other breaches by importers and clearing agents.
Customs officials have made it clear that importers and agents cannot evade their obligations through misrepresentation of goods or manipulation of import documentation, emphasising that the authority will recover duties owed and apply sanctions where necessary.
The push comes amid broader efforts by the NCS to enhance regulatory compliance and trade facilitation, following previous enforcement initiatives such as giving defaulting importers deadlines to regularise their Temporary Admission Permits (TAPs) or face penalties and legal action.
What Non-Compliant Traders Should Expect
Sanctions for non-compliance could include:
- Fines or penalties in line with provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
- Increased audits and inspections during and after clearance processes.
- Possible seizure or forfeiture of goods where false or fraudulent declarations are detected.
- Legal action against entities that persistently breach customs laws.
Customs enforcement is intended not only to protect revenue but also to ensure fair competition, enhance the efficiency of cargo clearance, and strengthen Nigeria’s appeal as a trade destination. Efficient compliance reduces costly delays, supports faster logistics operations, and builds confidence among importers, exporters and small businesses engaged in international supply chains.
