The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced consultations with industry stakeholders on a proposed review of licensing renewal fees for Licensed Customs Agents, as part of its reforms to strengthen professionalism and regulatory efficiency in the freight forwarding sector.

The first meeting in the consultation series was held on Thursday at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, bringing together executives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), and the Customs Consultative Committee (CCC).

According to the NCS, the review aims to reflect current economic realities, including prevailing exchange rates, while addressing operational demands and ensuring that only agents meeting compliance, competence, and integrity standards remain in operation. The Service said the initiative will promote accountability, streamline processes, and improve service delivery in the sector.

The new licensing structure is scheduled to take effect in January 2026 after the conclusion of consultations. Customs also revealed that compliant agents will benefit from faster processing timelines, better engagement channels with officers, and improved integration with its upgraded digital platforms.

The NCS emphasised that the process will be inclusive, with feedback from industry associations, individual operators, and relevant government agencies considered before implementation. It reiterated its commitment to fairness, transparency, and fostering a secure and competitive trading environment in Nigeria.