Nigeria’s Customs Service (NCS) has reversed its earlier decision to ground over 60 private jets operating within the country, opting instead to pursue dialogue over alleged unpaid import duties.In a circular issued to aircraft operators on June 4, the NCS announced the temporary unsealing of the grounded aircraft, emphasizing that this step was intended to facilitate compliance.
The service clarified that this action does not constitute a waiver of any statutory obligations. The unsealing allows operators to present relevant documentation and engage in discussions with Customs to resolve outstanding duties and taxes amicably.Reacting to the development, the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu, highlighted the potential negative impact of grounding aircraft on foreign investment, particularly in the aviation sector. He cautioned that such measures could undermine efforts to develop Nigeria’s airspace to a global standard.
The unsealing of the grounded aircraft is a positive development by the customs. When aircraft are sealed, it conflicts with the federal government’s efforts and the minister’s initiatives to attract foreign investors to Nigeria and the aviation sector,” he stated.He further explained that payment of import duties is not mandated by Civil Aviation regulations.
The NCAA’s regulations are designed to encourage foreign investment, but imposing additional burdens could discourage investors. Aircraft registered with the NCAA under Flight Operators Clearance Certificate (FOCC) and Maintenance Clearance Certificate (MCC) typically pay $10,000 biannually to the agency, with each aircraft incurring approximately $96,000 monthly in charges and other expenses to the federal government.
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