Controversy is brewing within Nigeria’s import trade sector as key stakeholders, including the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), express strong opposition to the Nigerian Customs Service’s (NCS) deployment of its ‘Strike Force’ unit into the ports. The Strike Force, a specialized unit tasked with curbing malpractices within the import chain, has recently been authorized to intervene directly in cargo examinations and make seizures, even after cargo has been cleared by resident customs officers.

The NCS directive, detailed in an order signed by Deputy Comptroller General A. Chidi on behalf of the Comptroller General, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd), empowers the Strike Force to carry out 100% examination of cargo at the seaports. This move, however, has been met with widespread criticism from port stakeholders who argue it will exacerbate delays, increase congestion, and complicate the already cumbersome cargo clearing process.

The LCCI, in particular, has warned that the Strike Force’s intervention is a duplication of the existing duties performed by resident customs officers and other agencies involved in cargo examinations. LCCI Director General, Muda Yusuf, emphasized that this measure undermines the Ease of Doing Business Policy and violates the Presidential Executive Order aimed at streamlining port operations.

Stakeholders argue that adding another layer of oversight, with the potential to seize already cleared goods, will stifle trade, discourage investment, and further burden importers, worsening an already congested port system.