In a decisive move to recover unpaid import duties, the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has grounded approximately 60 private jets across major Nigerian airports, including those in Lagos and Abuja. The action targets aircraft whose owners have failed to comply with import duty regulations, with the NCS aiming to recover outstanding payments amounting to several billions of naira.
The affected aircraft include high-end models such as the Bombardier BD-700 Global 6000, 6500, and 7500 series. Owners of these jets, comprising top bank executives, multinational oil companies, and other prominent individuals, have reportedly begun lobbying the Presidency to secure the release of their aircraft.
This enforcement follows a verification exercise initiated by the NCS to identify defaulters in the payment of import duties. Despite an extension of the verification deadline from October 14 to November 14, 2024, many jet owners failed to comply. The NCS had previously delayed enforcement due to ongoing court cases but has now commenced grounding operations without issuing fresh notices.
Customs officials have sealed several aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, confirmed the development, stating that the service is committed to collecting all revenues due to the government. He emphasized that grounded aircraft would be released once owners regularize their payments.
In a related development, some aircraft owners have initiated contact with the Presidency to negotiate the release of their jets. A leading Nigerian bank has pledged to settle its dues by next Tuesday, while an energy company owning three jets has also promised payment in the coming week.
Rumors have emerged suggesting that the NCS may temporarily unseal some grounded aircraft to allow owners to present relevant documents and discuss payment modalities. A document dated June 4, 2025, purportedly signed by Deputy-Comptroller General C.K. Niagwan, indicates that such temporary unsealing has received approval from the Comptroller-General of Customs. The document clarifies that this measure is solely to facilitate compliance and does not constitute a waiver of any statutory obligations.
Industry experts have reacted to the development, calling for adherence to global best practices. Frank Oruye, a former deputy director of engineering at the defunct Nigerian Airways, urged private jet operators to fulfill their tax obligations and called on the NCS to maintain professionalism. He highlighted past challenges with Customs regarding the re-importation of aircraft components, emphasizing the need for clear regulations.
Retired Group Captain John Ojikutu expressed concerns over the security implications of foreign-registered aircraft operating in Nigeria without proper clearance. He criticized both the NCS and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for allowing such operations, describing them as potential threats to national security. Ojikutu called for stricter enforcement of aviation regulations to prevent unauthorized flights.
The NCS's enforcement action underscores the government's commitment to ensuring compliance with import duty regulations and enhancing revenue collection. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders await further developments regarding the resolution of outstanding duties and the potential release of grounded aircraft.
ADEOLA KUNLE
