Customs Axes Banks Over Non-remittance of Duties, Statutory Charges

James Emejo in Abuja

The acting Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, yesterday approved the deactivation of Authorised Dealer Banks engaged by the service for revenue collection, over their failure to remit customs duties and statutory charges.
The decision followed a thorough audit and due process evaluation in line of customs commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and efficiency in revenue collection.

The primary objective was to ensure the accurate and timely remittance of customs duties and other essential funds for national development.
However, in a statement issued by customs spokesman, Mr. Abdullahi Maiwada, despite the deactivation of the affected banks, the Comptroller General has implemented measures to minimise disruptions for importers and stakeholders within the trading ecosystem.

He advised importers who previously relied on the deactivated banks for duty payments to utilise other dealer banks that comply with NCS regulations.
He also advised stakeholders encountering challenges with a particular bank to use alternatives that function appropriately.
The deactivated banks would however, have the opportunity to be reactivated once they meet all regulatory requirements and settle outstanding remittances, the statement added

Maiwada, also noted that collaborative efforts with financial regulators and stakeholders were underway to ensure the efficiency and integrity of the customs duty collection system.

According to him, the NCS places a priority on trade facilitation, putting stakeholders and Nigerian citizens first, even in the face of non-compliance by some authorised dealer banks.
He said the action underscored the NCS’ commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent customs revenue collection process.