Reps Demand Breakdown of ₦34tn Customs Waivers

The House of Representatives has called for a detailed breakdown of approximately ₦34 trillion in import duty waivers granted by the Nigeria Customs Service, as part of ongoing oversight of revenue-generating agencies. This demand was made during a meeting where the management of the Nigeria Customs Service appeared before the committee.

James Faleke, a member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in Lagos State, emphasized the need for transparency in the waiver process, questioning whether the intended economic benefits were achieved and if due process was followed. The committee expressed concerns over inconsistencies in the revenue reports from the Nigeria Customs Service, despite the agency surpassing its annual collection targets.

Deputy Chairman Said Abdullahi urged the federal government to review revenue targets assigned to customs, suggesting that the agency has the capacity to generate more revenue. Kikelomo Adeola clarified that the Nigeria Customs Service does not approve waivers, which are granted by the Federal Ministry of Finance.

The meeting also highlighted the need for state governments to invest in inland dry ports to improve cargo clearance and reduce pressure on national ports.