The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), introduced new guidelines that limit the duration cargo can remain at ports across the country to a maximum of 30 days.
This move is part of efforts to enhance trade facilitation, aligning with the Federal Government’s initiatives aimed at improving the Ease of Doing Business.
In a statement issued by the NCS spokesperson, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the agency revealed the new measures regulating the dwell time for both import and export consignments at port terminals.
Maiwada explained that these guidelines are intended to address the issue of port congestion, streamline the cargo clearance process, and reduce conflicts arising from the disposal of overtime cargo.
“In line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, the Service is reinforcing the provisions that require imported goods to be cleared within 30 days of the importing carrier’s discharge or within a timeline specified by the Service, as outlined in Section 30(1),” the statement noted.
He further emphasized that Section 149(1) of the Act grants the Service the authority to set time limits for the clearance of cargo from the customs territory.
The guidelines are designed to ensure compliance, eliminate unnecessary delays, and maintain order at port terminals while allowing sufficient time for importers and exporters to clear their goods.
To improve efficiency, all consignments will enjoy a 30-day grace period from their arrival at the port, free from overtime clearance restrictions.
However, any cargo left uncleared after this period will be classified as ‘overtime’ but may still be cleared within an additional 30 days, subject to application and approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller (CAC).
