The Federal Government has approved a new customs policy exempting imported goods valued at $300 or less from payment of duties and related taxes.
The policy, which takes effect from Monday, September 8, 2025, was endorsed during the 63rd regular meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Board, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on September 2, 2025.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, explained that the approval establishes a De Minimis Threshold Value for low-value consignments imported through express shipments or passenger baggage.
“This decision aligns with global best practices to simplify clearance procedures, facilitate trade, and support e-commerce stakeholders as well as travellers,” he said.
According to the Service, the $300 threshold applies to e-commerce consignments, passenger baggage, and other low-value imports, limited to four importations annually. Goods above the threshold or on the prohibited/restricted list remain subject to duty.
The framework also provides for the immediate release and clearance of eligible consignments without post-release documentation, while warning against manipulation of invoices or duty evasion. Penalties for noncompliance include forfeiture, arrest, and sanctions under the NCS Act, 2023.
Maiwada added that the NCS will establish support channels to guide stakeholders on compliance and resolve complaints during implementation. The initiative is expected to boost cross-border e-commerce, reduce clearance delays, and strengthen Nigeria’s trade facilitation role in the region.
Beyond policy matters, the Board also reviewed disciplinary cases involving some officers. Two were demoted following acts of misconduct captured in viral videos, while two others were reinstated after their cases were reconsidered. The sanctioned officers will undergo mandatory medical re-evaluation, while the Service reiterated its zero tolerance for banned substances, misconduct, and unethical practices.
The statement stressed that the NCS remains committed to accountability, discipline, and integrity in discharging its mandate, with reforms aimed at deepening public trust and ensuring personnel uphold national values.
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