The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, NEPZA, has announced tighter enforcement measures against alleged illegal importation of containers into Free Trade Zones, warning operators that strict compliance with regulations is mandatory.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPZA, Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja by the Authority’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr Martins Odeh.
Ogunyemi said the free trade zone operating licence was a legal instrument of obligation and a foundation for maintaining a fair and transparent global marketplace.
“Effective immediately, the Authority is tightening its enforcement posture against the allegations of illegal importation of containers into our controlled spaces,” he said.
He said the measures would include intensified inspections, closer scrutiny of documentation, coordinated action with partner enforcement agencies and full application of penalties provided under the law.
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“Operators who circumvent lawful import and export procedures, mis-declare goods, or attempt to move containers through unauthorised channels should be in no doubt that such conduct will be identified and met with decisive regulatory action,” Ogunyemi said.
According to him, the enforcement measures are aimed at protecting the integrity of NEPZA’s systems, safeguarding public interest, ensuring a level playing field and upholding standards required by legitimate businesses.
“Illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods, and erodes public confidence. We will not permit it to continue unchecked,” he said.
The NEPZA boss, however, stressed that the Authority would continue to handle regulatory matters with fairness, justice and transparency, saying operators found culpable would face the consequences of Nigerian law.
He added that businesses not involved in any infractions should be allowed to continue their operations, noting their contribution to the economy and the fulfilment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Ogunyemi said the majority of operators in the Free Trade Zones conduct their businesses honestly, meet their obligations and contribute to a thriving and well-regulated trade environment.
“The diligence and integrity of the majority of our operators deserve recognition, not suspicion,” he said.
“The unlawful actions of a small minority must not be allowed to overshadow, discredit, or obstruct the achievements of the compliant majority. Our strengthened enforcement is directed precisely at those who break the rules, not at the many who uphold them.”
The NEPZA chief executive said the Authority remained committed to supporting and facilitating businesses that operate within the law, while encouraging operators and their associations to strengthen self-regulation.
“I have also advised and encouraged the zones, directly and through their association, to self-police,” he said.
Ogunyemi further stated that the Free Trade Zone scheme continued to generate significant revenue for the government, stressing the need for the government, its agencies and operators to protect the sector’s achievements from activities capable of undermining its credibility.
