Nigeria Customs Introduces Advance Ruling System to Combat Illicit Imports 

Samuel Mobolaji

In a significant move to curb the importation of illicit drugs and other illegal items into Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced the Advance Ruling System (ARS). This global trade facilitation tool is designed to enhance the strategic operations of economic operators in the country.

During a sensitization workshop for stakeholders and Customs Officers, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the importance of adhering to the service’s rules of engagement. Represented by the zonal coordinator of Zone A, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) Saidu Yusuf, Adeniyi highlighted that the ARS, along with other newly introduced trade facilitation tools, mandates applicants or importers to declare the status of items to be imported.

The ARS allows Customs officers to inquire about the classification, type, origin, and valuation of consignments beforehand. This proactive approach is expected to significantly reduce the illegal importation of firearms, fake, and substandard items flooding the Nigerian market.

Adeniyi stated, “The system mandates applicants or importers to first declare the status of items to be imported. Officers can then ask questions on the classification of consignments, types of consignments, origin of the consignment, and valuation beforehand. Whatever information is given, once the importation is done, all items, as long as the laws are followed, will be binding on both the importer and the NCS.”

Upon completing the status declaration, a certificate will be issued to the consignee, importer, or applicant for a moderate fee determined by the government. These guidelines are essential tools of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). The full implementation of the ARS will showcase the roles of Customs officers and ensure imported items are covered by the necessary end-user certificates.

Adeniyi further explained, “The Advance Ruling System will harmonize the entire process in line with international best practices. The faster cargo is moved out of the ports, the more revenue will be generated. It will reduce congestion, creating enough space for incoming cargo. This will translate into more revenue for the Nigeria Customs Service and Nigeria.”

In summary, the introduction of the ARS by the Nigeria Customs Service is a significant step towards enhancing trade facilitation and ensuring the importation of legal and quality goods, thereby boosting the nation’s economy.