The Ports Terminal Multi-Services Limited Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has begun implementing a 4% charge on free on board services, despite concerns from stakeholders.
The charge, which takes effect on February 10, is aimed at increasing revenue for the Customs Service.
Comptroller DM Daniyan, Customs Area Controller of the Command, explained that the charge is necessary to fund the Service’s projects and responsibilities.
He noted that the government has many responsibilities and that the Customs Service needs better funding for efficient management.
However, stakeholders have expressed concerns about the timing of the implementation, arguing that they should have been given more notice.
Jude Ige, chapter chairman of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria, stated that the increase may have direct consequential effects on the prices of goods and appealed for a delay in implementation.
Emmanuel Ohambele, PTML chapter chairman of the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria, also called for a 60- to 90-day delay to allow stakeholders to sensitize importers about the new charge.
Despite these concerns, the Customs Service has commenced implementation of the increase at the Tin Can Island Port Command and the Apapa Command, with other Commands expected to follow suit to achieve uniformity.
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