The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially prohibited the examination of pharmaceutical-related cargoes at bonded terminals across the country, directing that all such inspections be confined to only four designated commands. This directive is aimed at strengthening oversight and ensuring stricter compliance with importation regulations governing sensitive medical and pharmaceutical products.
In a notice circulated to stakeholders within the importation and clearing chain, the NCS clarified that henceforth, clearance procedures for all pharmaceutical consignments must be conducted exclusively at the Apapa, Tincan Island, Port Harcourt Port, and Muritala Muhammed International Airport commands. This restriction is part of a broader strategy to combat the infiltration of substandard, unregistered, or counterfeit drugs into the Nigerian market.
According to the Service, allowing examinations at bonded terminals had previously exposed the process to regulatory loopholes, making it difficult to maintain adequate scrutiny over the nature, quality, and legality of certain pharmaceutical imports. By centralizing the examination process at key points, Customs aims to collaborate more closely with regulatory agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to uphold public health standards.
The decision has already triggered reactions among freight forwarders and clearing agents, with some expressing concern about potential delays and congestion at the designated commands. However, Customs authorities insist that the move is necessary to prevent the abuse of the clearing system and to improve the traceability and safety of medical products entering the country.
Industry stakeholders have been urged to comply with the new directive and adjust their importation plans accordingly, as non-compliance may result in seizure, penalties, or legal consequences. The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of Nigerians through more efficient and secure border control measures.
