The Nigerian government has grounded over 60 private jets at major airports across the country as part of a new enforcement drive targeting wealthy individuals and corporations that have failed to pay import duties. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which led the operation, sealed private jet hangars at both Lagos and Abuja airports during the exercise.
Officials confirmed that the aircraft affected include several high-end models such as the Bombardier Global 6000, 6500, and 7500 series. These jets, typically owned by Nigeria’s most affluent business leaders, now remain stationary on tarmacs due to unpaid customs fees.
Enforcement Began Quietly After Deadline Passed
Customs launched the verification exercise in October 2024 to identify defaulting aircraft owners. The initiative was originally scheduled to begin on October 14, but authorities pushed the deadline to November 14 following requests for more time from private jet operators. Despite this extension, enforcement was delayed for several months due to pending legal issues.
However, without issuing a new public notice, the NCS began quietly grounding jets on Monday, June 3, 2025. Sources confirmed that customs officers moved into the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, sealing aircraft belonging to both private individuals and corporations.
Top Executives and Corporations Affected
The crackdown has affected prominent Nigerians, including bank executives, oil and gas tycoons, and senior officials at multinational firms. Many of them have begun lobbying the Presidency and other top government figures in an effort to reclaim their grounded jets.
One major bank reportedly promised to clear its outstanding customs debt by Tuesday next week. Another firm is said to be negotiating through intermediaries to resolve its tax obligations. As the pressure builds, some aircraft owners are receiving temporary relief.
A document dated June 4, 2025, and reportedly signed by Deputy Comptroller-General C.K. Niagwan, revealed that the Customs Service has “temporarily unsealed” a limited number of jets. This move allows operators to submit their documents and engage in discussions about settling their import duties.
According to the document, the temporary release does not mean that the duties have been waived. Rather, it gives owners a final chance to comply and avoid long-term seizure.
Customs Explains the Reason Behind the Crackdown
When contacted, Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed that enforcement is now in full swing. He explained that after multiple warnings and extended deadlines, the agency had no choice but to act.
“Yes, enforcement has started. The aircraft are grounded for the non-payment of customs duties,” Maiwada said. “Once they come forward, pay what is due, and regularize their documentation, they will get their aircraft back.”
He emphasized that the Customs Service went out of its way to give aircraft owners enough time. “We extended the deadline and even over-extended it. Everyone knew this was coming. Now we are enforcing the law to ensure Nigeria gets what it is owed.”
Industry Experts Urge Compliance and Accountability
Aviation experts have reacted strongly to the development. Frank Oruye, a former deputy director of engineering at the now-defunct Nigeria Airways, called on private jet owners to fulfill their obligations. He also urged the Customs Service to carry out its duties professionally and fairly.
Oruye recalled past disputes between Nigeria Airways and the NCS over imported aircraft parts known as Rotables, which are extremely expensive and essential for aircraft maintenance. He said better coordination and transparency are needed to avoid future conflicts in the aviation sector.
Similarly, retired Group Captain John Ojikutu expressed concern about national security. He noted that many of the grounded jets are foreign-registered and operating in Nigeria without proper oversight.
“When I worked at the airport, I seized Abiola’s aircraft twice,” he recalled. “In those days, such lapses were not tolerated. Today, things are different. Allowing foreign aircraft to fly here without clearance is dangerous, especially considering our current security situation.”
Ojikutu blamed both the Customs Service and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for allowing undocumented aircraft to operate in the country. He warned that this lack of regulation puts Nigeria at risk.
Clampdown Signals Tougher Revenue Enforcement
This operation is part of a broader government effort to increase revenue collection at a time when Nigeria faces budget deficits and inflation. By going after the wealthy who have evaded taxes, the government hopes to show that no one is above the law.
Although some aircraft owners are seeking relief through legal or political channels, the Customs Service has remained firm. According to Maiwada, the agency plans to continue grounding aircraft until all outstanding payments are made.
“We’re enforcing the law, not targeting individuals,” he said. “This is about collecting revenue that belongs to Nigerians so it can be used for national development.”
What Happens Next
All signs suggest that enforcement will continue in the coming weeks. Customs is not expected to back down, despite pressure from affected parties. As more jets remain grounded, many owners will have little choice but to settle their duties and regularize their documents.
This crackdown has sent a clear message: the era of ignoring import tax obligations is over. With both legal backing and public support, the Nigeria Customs Service is now moving decisively to collect every naira owed to the nation.
