Customs extends verification exercise for import duty on private jets to November 14

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says the verification exercise for import duty on private jets has been extended to November 14.

In a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, its public relations officer, on Monday, NCS said the extension, which starts today October 14 to November 14, is to further engage operators who have expressed willingness to regularise their import duties.

Earlier today, it was reported that the federal government will ground over 60 private jets owned by very important persons in the country over unpaid import duty running into several billions of naira.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to inform the general public, particularly operators of privately-owned aircraft, that the verification exercise for the recovery of import duties on illegally imported private aircraft has been extended by one month, from Monday, 14th October 2024, to Thursday, 14th November 2024,” Maiwada said.

“This extension aims to further engage operators who have expressed willingness to regularize their import duties, providing them with an additional window to comply with the necessary regulations.

“The NCS is committed to ensuring that all illegally imported aircraft meet the legal requirements, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in the aviation sector.

“In light of this extension, the NCS encourages aircraft operators to take full advantage of the extended period to fulfill their obligations, avoiding sanctions that may arise from non-compliance after the deadline.”

Maiwada also said the service under the leadership of Adewale Adeniyi, comptroller general, is dedicated to enforcing the laws governing import duties and maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

On March 14, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) threatened to revoke the operating licences of private jet owners engaging in commercial flight operations.

Less than two months later, the authority directed that a re-evaluation of all holders of permits for noncommercial flights (PNCF) be carried out on or before April 19 to ascertain compliance with regulatory requirements.

On July 5, the NCAA said 10 private jet operators have been suspended over failure to undergo a recertification process.