The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association has accused the Nigeria Customs Service of hampering economic activities of business owners in the country.
In a statement on Monday, Timothy Olawale, the Director General of NECA, alleged that Customs operatives “obstruct legitimate businesses through inconsistent and arbitrary tariff classification, excessive and unfriendly duty rate on key raw materials that have no local substitute.”
Olawale further accused Customs of “improper valuation of consignments and reckless interception of containers after legitimate clearance,” calling on the federal government to intervene.
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He said, “The world economy is on the precipice with nations doing all that is necessary to keep their productive sector going. Recent incessant issues with the Nigeria Customs Service have become worrisome as it has the potential to push businesses off the cliff.
“Customs officers’ attitude would fast-track the demise of more enterprises and exacerbate the current unemployment situation in Nigeria. Customs wants to meet its revenue target, but it should not be at the expense of legitimate businesses.
“With the Africa Continental Free Trade Area coming into effect Jan. 1, 2021, these recurring issues will only destroy Nigerian businesses. It will also make importation of manufactured goods more attractive with grave consequences for Nigeria.”
