In a major move aimed at reforming Nigeria’s freight forwarding landscape, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced high-level consultations with key industry stakeholders on a proposed review of licensing renewal fees for Licensed Customs Agents.
The initiative, which was disclosed at a stakeholder meeting at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, signals a shift toward stricter regulatory standards and increased operational efficiency in the customs brokerage sector.
Present at the meeting were top executives from major freight forwarding associations including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), and the Customs Consultative Committee (CCC).
The planned licensing fee review is expected to take effect in January 2026, following the conclusion of ongoing stakeholder consultations.
According to the NCS, the decision is rooted in Sections 103 to 107 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and forms part of broader efforts to modernise the Service and align with economic and operational realities.
Speaking on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that the revised fee structure is aimed at reinforcing professionalism, improving service quality, and eliminating sharp practices.
“This reform is about more than just rates. It is about compliance, competence, and integrity,” Dr. Maiwada said.
“Only agents who meet our professional and regulatory standards will remain in the system.”
The new licensing regime is expected to be anchored on transparency and fairness, with incentives built in for compliant operators.
These include priority processing, better communication channels with Customs officers, and streamlined integration into the Service’s enhanced digital platforms.
Industry experts see the consultations as a significant step toward sanitisizng the cargo clearance process and improving Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.
By trying licensing to performance and compliance, the NCS aims to create a system that rewards professionalism while deterring malpractice.
Dr. Maiwada further assured stakeholders of an inclusive process, noting that all feedback from associations, individuals, and relevant government agencies will be considered before final implementation.
“This is not just an administrative change; it is a strategic overhaul aimed at creating a more secure, efficient, and competitive trading environment for Nigeria,” he added.
The consultations are part of a series of reforms under the current NCS leadership, which continues to prioritize digital transformation, operational transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
As the January 2026 implementation date approaches, industry players are advised to prepare for compliance while contributing constructively to the ongoing dialogue.
Victoria Ibanga