The Federal Government suspended the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) import charge, and that decision steadied Nigeria’s fragile economy.
Initially, government introduced the levy on August 4, 2025 to boost revenue.
However, manufacturers quickly warned that the policy would raise the cost of importing raw materials and machinery.
As a result, they argued, the charge would fuel inflation and weaken growth.
Relief For Manufacturers
Therefore, when government halted the charge, industry leaders celebrated the move as a rescue from a looming crisis.
“The Minister just saved our country from a self-inflicted escalation in prices,” declared, director-general of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir.
“The suspension brings relief not only to our members but also to the wider business community.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service must now update its systems and remove the charge from its portal.
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By doing so, it will reassure manufacturers who had feared higher operating costs.
Call For Inclusive Policy
At the same time, MAN shifted the conversation beyond relief.
The association, which represents more than 2,500 members across 10 sectors, urged government to organise broad stakeholder consultations.
Through such dialogue, MAN believes Nigeria can design customs policies that balance efficiency with competitiveness.
In addition, Ajayi-Kadir pressed government to align trade charges with newly introduced tax laws, arguing that consistency will foster confidence and stability.
Ultimately, the suspension eased immediate pressures.
Yet it also highlighted Nigeria’s constant struggle to balance revenue needs with economic growth.
Looking ahead, manufacturers expect government to adopt policies that promote industrialisation, cut business costs and strengthen local production.
