The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has raised concern over delays in the remittance of Customs revenue by some Designated Banks after reconciliation of collections processed through the B’odogwu platform, describing the practice as a breach of remittance obligations that undermines the efficiency, transparency and integrity of government revenue administration.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Service announced the commencement of enforcement actions in line with the Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the NCS and Designated Banks, warning that defaulting institutions will face penalties for failing to meet agreed remittance timelines.
According to the NCS, any Designated Bank that does not remit collected Customs revenue within the prescribed period will be liable to penalty interest calculated at three percent above the prevailing Nigerian Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) for the duration of the delay. Affected banks will be formally notified of the delayed amount, the applicable penalty and the deadline for settlement.
The Service further warned that persistent or repeated violations of the SLA could attract additional regulatory and administrative sanctions, as provided under the Agreement and relevant laws governing Customs revenue collection.
Reiterating its position, the NCS stressed that prompt, accurate and complete remittance of Customs revenue remains a fundamental obligation of all Designated Banks. It added that any payment of collected revenue into unauthorised accounts, whether deliberate or accidental, would be treated as a serious violation and handled in accordance with the SLA and applicable legal frameworks.
The Service therefore advised Designated Banks to strengthen their internal controls, ensure strict compliance with remittance timelines and fully adhere to the provisions of the SLA. It reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing accountability, safeguarding government revenue and promoting a transparent and predictable financial system in support of national economic development.
The statement was signed by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Dr Abdullahi Maiwada.
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