The Federal Government has suspended the controversial 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) import levy, weeks after its introduction triggered widespread criticism from business groups and importers.
LensNews confirmed that the suspension was communicated in an official letter from the Ministry of Finance, dated 15 September 2025, and signed by Raymond Omachi, Permanent Secretary (Special Duties). The directive ordered the Nigeria Customs Service and other enforcement agencies to stop applying the levy with immediate effect.
The charge, introduced under the 2025 Finance Act, was meant to streamline revenue collection by replacing multiple existing fees. But stakeholders across trade and manufacturing sectors warned it would raise costs, worsen inflation, and damage Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.
Finance Minister Wale Edun, who also chairs the Customs Board, approved the suspension to allow for further review of the policy framework. Government sources said consultations with industry players will continue in the coming weeks to determine the next steps.
For now, the suspension offers relief to importers who had already threatened to pass the costs on to consumers. But questions remain on whether the government will scrap the levy entirely or reintroduce it in a modified form.
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