Lagos Chamber of Commerce urges Customs to stop enforcing the suspended 4% import levy.
The group warns continued charges contradict government orders and threaten Nigeria’s fragile business environment.
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to halt the enforcement of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) levy on imports, warning that its continued application contradicts government directives and exacerbates the cost of doing business in Nigeria.
In a statement on Monday, Dr. Chinyere Almona, LCCI Director-General, said the private sector was “deeply concerned” that Customs had yet to comply with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun’s September 15 directive, which suspended the levy.
The Finance Minister had ordered the suspension following widespread outcry from manufacturers, importers, clearing agents, and other private sector stakeholders, who argued that the levy would fuel inflation, weaken competitiveness, and deter investment.
Almona emphasized that fiscal policy falls under the Finance Minister’s constitutional mandate, noting:
“A duly issued ministerial suspension should take immediate effect unless overturned by the National Assembly or a competent court.”
She added that Customs’ continued collection of the levy raises import costs, undermines competitiveness, and erodes investor confidence, contradicting the government’s pledge to improve Nigeria’s business climate.
The LCCI urged the Customs to recalibrate its systems to reflect the suspension immediately. Issue a public compliance notice to reassure businesses. Collaborate with the Finance Ministry and the National Assembly to resolve any legal ambiguities.
According to Almona, “Nigeria’s business community needs policy clarity and institutional coordination to sustain trade, jobs, and economic growth.”
