Nigeria Customs Approves $300 Duty Free Threshold to Boost Trade, Cautions Officers on Misconduct
The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has approved a $300 De Minimis threshold for low value imports, including e-commerce consignments and passenger baggage.
In a press release signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada on 7th September, 2025, the decision was taken at the Board’s 63rd regular meeting held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, under the chairmanship of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.
He said the newly approved threshold, which comes into effect on Monday, September 8, 2025, exempts qualifying imports valued at $300 or less from customs duties and related taxes. The policy is designed to simplify clearance procedures, reduce import costs for low-value goods, and support the growth of cross-border e-commerce. It also applies to passenger merchandise within the same value, with a cap of four eligible importations per individual annually.
Maiwada also said that the initiative, which is in line with provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and international instruments such as the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention, is expected to accelerate the release of qualifying goods, eliminate the need for post-clearance documentation, and reduce bottlenecks at entry points.
To ensure a seamless rollout, he said the service will launch a multi-channel helpdesk platform aimed at providing stakeholders,including travellers, importers, and e-commerce businesses with timely guidance, complaint resolution, and compliance support.
He disclosed that the Board also used the session to reinforce its commitment to discipline within the Service. It deliberated on recent cases of officer misconduct, following viral videos on social media. As a result, two officers were demoted and referred for medical re-evaluation to determine their continued fitness for service. Two other officers were reinstated after a favourable review of their cases. A stern warning was issued to all personnel, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on substance abuse and unethical conduct.
The service affirmed its continued dedication to accountability, integrity, and transparency.
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