THE NIGERIA Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its dedication to facilitating the importation of renewable energy technologies into the country.
This commitment was announced by the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, during the NCS Trade Facilitation Consultative Forum held in Lagos on Monday.
The forum, themed “Trade Facilitation Measures for Renewable Energy and Energy-Efficient Technologies,” highlighted the NCS’s role in enforcing fiscal policies to reduce fossil fuel dependency and support Nigeria’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
Represented by Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan, Adeniyi emphasized that the Green Customs Initiative aligns with global Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) and reinforces Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP).
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the NCS is streamlining the import process for renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels, by classifying them under duty-free and VAT-exempt Harmonized System (HS) codes.
These measures aim to enhance sector growth, ensure fair import treatment, and simplify procedures for compliant businesses.
Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Orbih of Zone ‘A’ noted that the NCS’s Advance Ruling Programme, launched on May 2, 2024, demonstrates its innovative approach to customs administration.
He highlighted partnerships with GIZ, the Nigeria Energy Support Programme (NESP), and other stakeholders as key to advancing renewable energy trade.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Power, Mahmud Mamman, emphasized that trade facilitation is critical for accelerating renewable energy adoption.
Simplified customs procedures, he stated, reduce costs and delays in importing solar panels and batteries, attracting foreign investment and expertise.
The European Union’s Head of Cooperation, Massimo De Luca, represented by Thessa Bagu, commended Nigeria’s efforts, stating that the forum reflects shared priorities in sustainable development and climate action.
Similarly, GIZ Country Director Dr. Markus Wagner praised the NCS for its Advance Ruling System, which has reduced clearance times for clean energy imports.
In a testimonial, CIG Motors’ Logistics Manager, Agu Boniface, lauded the Advance Ruling Programme for improving operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, Assistant Comptroller Abdullah Maiwada, in a presentation on effective communication, stressed its role in fostering stakeholder collaboration for sustainable trade growth.
The forum underscored Nigeria’s commitment to green energy transition through policy alignment, stakeholder engagement, and streamlined trade processes. (NAN)
