In a proactive measure aimed at enhancing compliance and optimizing import protocols, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), pursuant to the directive of the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, has instituted a 90-day period for the regularization of import duties pertaining to specific categories of vehicles.
In an official communication, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, serving as the National Public Relations Officer, delineated the scope of this initiative. It exclusively pertains to vehicles imported into Nigeria wherein the requisite customs duty has not been duly settled or vehicles detained due to undervaluation.
Maiwada clarified that vehicles subject to seizure and condemnation will not be eligible for release under this provision and will instead be relinquished to the Federal Government in adherence to extant regulations.
He further outlined the procedural requirements for vehicle owners, importers, or agents seeking to regularize import duties. They are mandated to submit applications to the designated Zonal Coordinators (Zones A, B, C, D) and the CAC FCT Command. Subsequently, they must furnish the requisite documentation and undergo the Vreg process in accordance with the directives of the Federal Ministry of Finance governing the registration of imported motor vehicles.
Maiwada emphasized that the valuation and assessment of vehicles will be conducted utilizing the VIN valuation method. Import duties, accompanied by a 25% penalty, are to be remitted in compliance with the import guidelines, procedural frameworks, and documentary prerequisites delineated for used vehicles under the Destination Inspection Scheme in Nigeria (2013) and the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023. Additionally, duty payments are to be executed utilizing the Procedure Code specifically designated for this endeavor.
