The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced consultations with stakeholders on a planned review of licensing renewal fees for Licensed Customs Agents, in line with its statutory mandate under Sections 103 to 107 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
This move aims to strengthen professionalism and regulatory efficiency in the freight forwarding sector.
The consultation, which marks the first in a series of sessions with industry players, was held at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja on August 7, 2025. Executives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANCLA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (AAPFFLON), and Customs Consultative Committee were in attendance.
The planned review seeks to reflect prevailing economic realities, including exchange rates, address operational demands, and ensure only compliant agents operate within the system. This initiative promotes accountability, streamlines processes, and enhances service delivery in the sector.
At the meeting, the New Licensing Structure was scheduled to take effect from January 2026, following stakeholder consultations.
The benefits for Compliant Agents include faster processing timelines, improved engagement channels with Customs officers, and enhanced integration with the Service’s upgraded digital platforms.
The NCS reassured stakeholders of its commitment to fairness, transparency, and feedback consideration before finalising the review.