Nigerian Customs Service Engages Banks Over Duty Remittance Issues

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) announced on Sunday (September 10, 2023) that it recently deactivated two banks due to their failure to remit collected duties. The NCS clarified that these erring banks had been reported to the relevant financial authorities, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and that discussions involving all parties were currently underway to address the issue.

According to Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, who serves as the National Public Relations Officer for the NCS, various measures are being taken to resolve the situation. Maiwada emphasized that the NCS had engaged in thorough discussions with the affected banks before resorting to blacklisting them. He also mentioned that a reasonable conclusion had been reached during discussions last week, and the banks were willing to rectify the situation promptly.

When asked about the specific amount that was not remitted by the banks, Maiwada stated that this information was deliberately not disclosed. He reiterated that the two Deposit Money Banks involved were in the process of resolving the issue and would soon be back on track.

Regarding whether the NCS had informed the CBN about the banks’ infractions, Maiwada confirmed that they were engaged with relevant systems, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, to ensure a resolution. He clarified that the purpose of their press release was not to tarnish any bank’s reputation but to express sympathy for affected importers and find a solution for traders who should not suffer due to the inadequacies of a particular institution.