By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, NEPZA, has announced immediate tougher enforcement against illegal importation of containers into Free Trade Zones, including intensified inspections and closer scrutiny of documentation.
NEPZA Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists by the Authority’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ogunyemi said the enforcement measures would also involve coordinated action with partner agencies and the full application of penalties provided under the law.
He warned operators against circumventing lawful import and export procedures, mis-declaring goods or moving containers through unauthorised channels.
“Operators who circumvent lawful import and export procedures, mis-declare goods, or attempt to move containers through unauthorised channels should be in no doubt that such conduct will be identified and met with decisive regulatory action,” Ogunyemi said.
According to the NEPZA chief, the measures are aimed at protecting the integrity of the Authority’s systems, safeguarding public interest and maintaining a level playing field for legitimate businesses.
He said illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods and erodes public confidence.
“We will not permit it to continue unchecked,” Ogunyemi said.
The NEPZA boss, however, said the Authority would continue to handle regulatory issues with fairness, justice and transparency.
He added that operators found culpable would face the consequences of the law, while businesses not implicated in any wrongdoing would be allowed to continue their operations.
Ogunyemi said the majority of operators in the Free Trade Zones conduct their businesses honestly, meet their obligations and contribute to the economy.
He stressed that the actions of a few operators should not overshadow the achievements of compliant businesses.
“Our strengthened enforcement is directed precisely at those who break the rules, not at the many who uphold them,” he said.
Ogunyemi also encouraged Free Trade Zone operators and their association to strengthen self-policing as part of efforts to maintain compliance within the sector.
He said NEPZA would continue to support businesses that operate within the law while taking firm action against activities capable of undermining the integrity of the Free Trade Zone system.
