The Customs Area Controller Tincan Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has sensitize a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including importers, Customs brokers, shipping agents, and other key players in the trade sector, 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 the new initiatives.
Onyeka, noted that the developments are aimed to streamline Nigeria’s Customs processes while improving efficiency and transparency within the trade importation landscape and in his continuous effort and renewed vigor to bring stakeholders up to speed on some of the emerging policies of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The Area Controller, who also emphasized on the importance of the reforms, particularly the 4% FOB levy, which applies to the value of goods at the point of import, said it is expected to boost the operational efficiency of the service in line with International best practices.
Onyeka, 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 116.4 billion naira, this, he said represented a significant increase when compared to the amount collected in January 2024, which was 88.4 billion.
Comptroller Onyeka, however expressed optimism regarding the continued growth, stating that the Command is on track to surpass its 2025 annual target of 1.6 trillion naira as he is taking adequate steps to maintain the momentum throughout the year.
On some of the reforms introduced in the Command so far, Comptroller Onyeka said he is creating a more trade-friendly environment for all port activities to strive.
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