By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Customs Area Controller Tincan Island Port Command Comptroller Frank Onyeka has successfully engaged a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including importers, Customs brokers, shipping agents, and other key players in the trade sector, to sensitize them on the implementation of the 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy and the new Unified Customs Management System known as B’Odogwu.
The interactive sessions, which were held in the Command on Thursday 6 and Friday February 7, 2025, brought together experts from both the private and public sectors, and created an open forum for dialogue on the operational implications of these new initiatives. He noted that these developments are aimed to streamline Nigeria’s Customs processes while improving efficiency and transparency within the trade and importation landscape.
The Area Controller emphasized the importance of these reforms, particularly the 4% FOB levy, which applies to the value of goods at the point of import. According to him, the 4% FOB levy which was provided for in Section 18 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 was expected to boost the operational efficiency of the service in line with International best practices.
Additionally, he stated that the introduction of the B’Odogwu Clearance System was highlighted as a step towards modernizing the Customs clearance process, reducing bottlenecks, and enhancing compliance. Noting that the scheme will soon be launched in the Command.
He also disclosed that In January 2025, the Command successfully generated a total of N116,412,735,766.23. This, he said represented a significant increase when compared to the amount collected in January 2024, which was N88,430,126,122.76. The difference between the two figures is N27,982,609,643.47, which corresponds to a 24.06% increase year-over-year.
Comptroller Frank expressed optimism regarding the continued growth, stating that the Command is on track to surpass its 2025 annual target of N1,524,699,999,478.52, as he is taking adequate steps to maintain the momentum throughout the year.
On some of his reforms introduced in the Command so far, Comptroller Onyeka said he is creating a more trade-friendly environment for all port activities to strive. He reiterated that the era of multiple alerts are over, and stressed that honest declarations and thorough examinations must be emphasized.
He promised to continue to engage with stakeholders, as this is a crucial part of ensuring the success of these initiatives,” . “Through constant collaboration and feedback, we aim to address concerns, foster a better understanding of the processes, and ultimately ensure smooth implementation of these policies.”
The directives from the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR to initiate these consultations underscores the commitment of the service to transparency, effective communication, and partnership with stakeholders as it navigates through the evolving landscape of international trade.
