ANLCA, Others Urge Caution On Proposed Customs License Fee Hike

… Advocates Sustainable Licensing Terms

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector have called for a measured approach to the proposed adjustment in customs licensing fees by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Nwokeoji (standing) and chieftains of licensed customs companies and others during the meeting.

At a consultative meeting held in Lagos Thursday, August 21, 2025, representatives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and other industry groups expressed concern over the scale of the proposed fee increase and its potential impact on trade facilitation.

The meeting, convened by ANLCA and led by its National President, Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, brought together licensed customs agents and trade professionals to deliberate on the implications of the proposed changes.

According to the draft framework, the cost of obtaining a new customs license would rise from ₦515,000 to ₦10 million, while annual renewal fees would increase from ₦215,000 to ₦4 million.

Mr. Nwokeoji noted that while regulatory adjustments are expected over time, the magnitude of the proposed increase could place undue financial pressure on operators and ultimately affect the cost of goods in the market.

“We believe a more gradual and consultative approach would better serve the industry and the Nigerian economy,” he said.

Dr. Ikenna Nwosu, Deputy Chairman of the Clearing and Forwarding Trade Group at LCCI, emphasized the importance of aligning licensing practices with global standards. “In most jurisdictions, licensing is not treated as a revenue-generating tool. The proposed structure appears to shift away from that principle,” he remarked.

Participants at the meeting also advocated for a longer license validity period, suggesting a renewal cycle of three to five years, in line with international benchmarks. Comparisons were drawn with countries such as Canada, the United States, and Singapore, where license renewals range from three to ten years, with some offering permanent licenses.

Retired Customs Comptroller and licensed agent, Mr. Lewis Ogunojemite, expressed concern over the potential exclusion of smaller operators. He described the proposed fee structure as “disproportionate” and cautioned against policies that could disrupt the balance of participation in the sector.

Chairman of ANLCA’s Board of Trustees, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, called for unity among agents and urged the NCS to engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. “We must present a coordinated position and ensure that any changes reflect the realities of our operating environment,” he stated.

Other contributors, including representatives from the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, reiterated the need for transparency and collaboration in policy formulation. They stressed that customs services globally are primarily focused on trade facilitation rather than revenue extraction.

The meeting concluded with a resolution to seek further engagement with the NCS, emphasizing the need for a balanced and inclusive licensing framework that supports both regulatory objectives and industry sustainability.