The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has directed stricter scrutiny of goods entering Nigeria's Free Trade Zones as part of a renewed enforcement campaign against illegal importation and other regulatory breaches.
The Managing Director of NEPZA, Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, announced the measures in a statement issued by the Authority's Head of Corporate Communications, Dr Martins Odeh, on Tuesday in Abuja, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
Ogunyemi said strict compliance with the regulations guiding transactions within the secured marketplace was mandatory for all Free Trade Zone operators. He described operating licences as legal instruments of obligation and a foundation for maintaining a fair and transparent marketplace.
"Effective immediately, the Authority is tightening its enforcement posture against the allegations of illegal importation of containers into our controlled spaces," he said.
"Operators who circumvent lawful import and export procedures, mis-declare goods, or attempt to move containers through unauthorised channels would be in no doubt that such conduct shall be identified," he added.
The enforcement programme will include intensified inspections, closer scrutiny of documentation and coordinated action with partner enforcement agencies. NEPZA will apply penalties provided under the law against operators found violating established procedures.
Ogunyemi warned that illegal importation undermined lawful commerce, exposed communities to unregulated goods and eroded public confidence. The measures, he said, were intended to protect NEPZA's systems and ensure a level playing field for businesses.
He noted that the majority of operators conduct their businesses honestly, meet their obligations and contribute to a well-regulated trade environment. He urged operators and their associations to strengthen self-policing within the Free Trade Zones, saying unlawful activities by a minority must not discredit the scheme, which continued to generate significant revenue for the government. The Authority, he assured stakeholders, would continue to handle regulatory issues with fairness, justice and transparency.
