In a significant development, the Acting Comptroller General of the
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has taken
decisive action in response to selected Authorized Dealer Banks failing to meet
Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) related to Customs Duty and statutory
charge remittances.
This decision follows a thorough audit and due process, aligning with the
NCS’s commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and efficiency in
revenue collection. The primary objective is to ensure the accurate and timely
remittance of Customs duties and other essential funds for national
development.
Despite the deactivation of these banks, the Comptroller General has
implemented measures to minimize disruptions for importers and stakeholders
within the trading ecosystem. He assures the trading community that all pending
assessments will undergo clearance processes in line with international best
practices.
Importers who previously relied on the deactivated banks for duty
payments are advised to utilize other Authorized Dealer Banks that comply with
NCS regulations. Stakeholders encountering challenges with a particular bank
are encouraged to use alternatives that function appropriately.
The deactivated banks will have the opportunity to be reactivated once
they meet all regulatory requirements and settle outstanding remittances.
Collaborative efforts with financial regulators and stakeholders are underway to
ensure the efficiency and integrity of the Customs Duty Collection system.
The NCS places a high priority on trade facilitation, putting stakeholders
and Nigerian citizens first, even in the face of non-compliance by some
Sep 23
Authorized Dealer Banks. This action underscores the NCS’s commitment to
maintaining a fair and transparent customs revenue collection process.
