Port charges and policy incoherence

Nigerian manufacturers oppose a new 4% customs charge, warning it will raise costs and divert cargo to neighbouring countries.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has opposed the Nigeria Customs Service’s reintroduction of a 4% Free on Board (FOB) charge, warning it will raise operational costs, encourage under-declaration, and divert cargo to neighbouring countries. Implemented on 4 August to fund a unified customs management system, the charge exceeds regional norms of 0.5–1%. MAN has requested a postponement until late 2025 to assess its economic impact. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is advancing efforts to revitalise underutilised eastern ports—including Onne, Warri, and Calabar—to ease pressure on Lagos and support economic diversification. Delta State has also urged port revival to boost trade and employment.