The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has temporarily suspended its recently announced 4% levy on import values, seeking more time for stakeholder consultation.

The suspension, announced Tuesday by Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwasa, comes just days after the initial February 5 announcement of the Free-on-Board (FOB) value charge. The decision follows discussions with Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

According to Maiwasa, the timing coincides with the expiration of contracts with service providers, including Webb Fontaine, which were previously funded through the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS). "This presents an opportunity to review our revenue framework holistically," he explained.

The new charge structure stems from the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, which aims to streamline previous funding arrangements. The Act consolidates funding streams to address operational inefficiencies and modernization needs, establishing a minimum 4% FOB value charge on imports.

Maiwasa highlighted the Act's focus on technological advancement, noting several digital initiatives already underway. These include the recently launched B'Odogwu clearance system, which has improved processing times and transparency. The legislation also authorizes various technological improvements such as:

- Single Window implementation

- Enhanced risk management systems

- Non-intrusive inspection equipment

- Electronic data exchange facilities

The suspension period will allow Customs to refine implementation strategies and engage more thoroughly with stakeholders before proceeding with the new levy structure.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​