Customs extends deadline for private aircraft import duty verification

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a one-month extension for the verification exercise for the recovery of import duties on privately-owned aircraft that were imported illegally.

The new deadline for compliance is set for November 14, 2024, offering additional time for aircraft operators to regularise their import duties. This was contained in a statement made yesterday by the National Public Relations Officer of NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the extension, which commenced October 14, 2024, is designed to give operators an extra window of opportunity to align with the regulatory requirements.

The NCS emphasised that this initiative supports greater transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s aviation sector.The NCS said by complying with these regulations, operators can avoid potential sanctions that will come into effect after the new deadline.

Adeniyi affirmed the NCS’s commitment to enforcing import duty regulations and upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

He further stated that the extension underscores the NCS’s effort to work collaboratively with the aviation community, providing operators who have shown a willingness to comply with the regulations the opportunity to regularise their aircraft import statuses.

Adeniyi also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and understanding of stakeholders throughout this ongoing exercise.

“The NCS remains dedicated to ensuring that all privately-owned aircraft meet the legal requirements for import duties. We encourage operators to take full advantage of this extended period to fulfil their obligations and avoid any penalties for non-compliance,” Adeniyi said.

He reiterated the importance of this extension and urged stakeholders to act promptly, stressing that the NCS remains committed to a fair and transparent enforcement process.

He said for more information on the verification exercise and compliance procedures, aircraft operators are encouraged to reach out to the Nigeria Customs Service.