The Federal Government has suspended the implementation of the four per cent Free on-Board levy recently introduced by the Nigeria Customs Service on all imported goods.
The decision, announced by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, followed widespread concerns from importers, trade experts, and other industry stakeholders about the levy’s negative economic implications.
In a letter dated Monday, September 15, 2025, and addressed to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Edun –acting in his capacity as Chairman of the NCS Board– ordered the immediate suspension of the levy.
The letter, signed by the Permanent Secretary for Special Duties in the Ministry of Finance, Raymond Omachi, explained that extensive consultations had been held with stakeholders and experts, whose feedback showed that the levy would place a significant strain on trade and the economy.
“Following extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, trade experts, and relevant government officials, it has become clear that the implementation of the levy poses significant challenges to trade facilitation, the business environment, and overall economic stability,” the letter stated.
