NEPZA orders crackdown on illegal container imports in free trade zones

The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced stricter measures against illegal container imports into Free Trade Zones. NEPZA Managing Director Olufemi Ogunyemi stated that this would involve heightened inspections, stricter document scrutiny, and coordinated enforcement with other government agencies. Ogunyemi emphasized that obtaining an operating licence for a Free Trade Zone operator is not merely a permit to do business, but a legal obligation to follow the rules governing the zones.

The Authority warned that operators involved in illegal transactions would face penalties under Nigerian law. NEPZA's goal is to protect legitimate businesses and prevent unlawful activities from hurting public confidence in the scheme. Operators found guilty would face the full force of Nigerian law, while those cleared would be allowed to continue their operations.