The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced a tough stance on illegal container importation in the country's free trade zones. In a statement, NEPZA's Managing Director, Dr. Martins Odeh, and Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi emphasized that strict adherence to regulations is mandatory. The free trade zone operating licence is a legal instrument of obligation, ensuring a fair and transparent marketplace.
Effective immediately, NEPZA is intensifying inspections, scrutinizing documentation, and coordinating with partner enforcement agencies to curb illegal importation. The authority will apply penalties provided under the law to operators who circumvent procedures, mis-declare goods, or use unauthorized channels. Dr. Ogunyemi warned that such conduct will be identified and met with decisive regulatory action.
The measures aim to protect NEPZA's systems, safeguard public interest, ensure a level playing field, and uphold standards for legitimate businesses. Dr. Ogunyemi stated that illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods, and erodes public confidence. He emphasized that NEPZA will not permit such activities to continue unchecked.
According to Dr. Ogunyemi, the authority has always handled regulatory issues with fairness, justice, and transparency. Operators found culpable will face the consequences of Nigerian law. He recognized the diligence and integrity of the majority of operators, who deserve recognition, not suspicion.
The NEPZA Chief Executive Officer reiterated that strengthened enforcement targets those who break the rules, not the many who uphold them. The authority remains committed to supporting businesses that operate within the law. Dr. Ogunyemi advised and encouraged zones to self-police, directly and through their association.
The scheme continues to generate significant revenue for the government. The Federal Government, its agents, and operators must not allow the alleged unsavoury activities of a minority to discredit the successes of the majority. Dr. Ogunyemi emphasized NEPZA's commitment to championing businesses that operate within the law.
The authority's efforts aim to promote a fair and transparent marketplace in Nigeria's free trade zones. By enforcing regulations and cracking down on illegal importation, NEPZA seeks to protect the interests of legitimate businesses and the general public. The initiative is also expected to boost revenue generation for the government.
Key points
- NEPZA is intensifying inspections and scrutiny of documentation to curb illegal importation.
- The authority will apply penalties to operators who circumvent lawful import and export procedures.
- NEPZA aims to protect the integrity of its systems and uphold standards for legitimate businesses.
