In a significant development, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has taken decisive action in response to selected Authorized Dealer Banks failing to meet their Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) regarding Customs Duty and statutory charge remittances.
According to a statement by Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, this decision stems from a comprehensive audit and due process, in alignment with the NCS’s dedication to maintaining transparency, accountability, and efficiency in revenue collection.
The primary objective is to ensure the accurate and timely remittance of Customs duties and other vital funds for national development.
Maiwada also explained that despite the deactivation of these banks, the Comptroller General has put measures in place to minimize disruptions for importers and stakeholders operating within the trading ecosystem.
Moreover, he assured the trading community that all pending assessments will undergo clearance processes following international best practices.
Importers who previously relied on the deactivated banks for duty payments are advised to utilize other Authorized Dealer Banks that adhere to NCS regulations.
For stakeholders encountering challenges with a specific bank, alternative options that function appropriately are encouraged.
The deactivated banks will have the opportunity to be reactivated once they meet all regulatory requirements and settle outstanding remittances.
Collaborative efforts with financial regulators and stakeholders are currently in progress to ensure the efficiency and integrity of the Customs Duty Collection system.
The NCS places a high priority on trade facilitation, always prioritizing stakeholders and Nigerian citizens, even when faced with non-compliance by some Authorized Dealer Banks.
This action underscores the NCS’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent customs revenue collection process.
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