By Felix Khanoba
The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced stricter enforcement measures against the illegal movement and importation of containers into Free Trade Zones, warning operators to comply fully with established regulations.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPZA, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Authority’s Assistant Director and Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh.
Ogunyemi stressed that compliance with the rules governing activities within the zones remained a fundamental requirement for all licensed operators.
He described the free trade zone operating licence as a legal instrument that comes with corresponding obligations, saying adherence to the rules was essential to maintaining a transparent and credible business environment capable of attracting global investment.
The NEPZA boss said the Authority had decided to strengthen its regulatory measures following concerns over the alleged illegal importation of containers into its controlled areas.
“Effective immediately, the Authority is tightening its enforcement posture against the allegations of illegal importation of containers into our controlled spaces.
“This includes intensified inspections, closer scrutiny of documentation, coordinated action with partner enforcement agencies, and the full application of penalties provided under the law.
“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,’’ a statement signed by Dr Martins Odeh, Assistant Director/Head, Corporate Communications, NEPZA, quoted Ogunyemi to have said.
Ogunyemi further said the enhanced measures were intended to preserve the integrity of NEPZA’s regulatory framework, protect the public interest and ensure that businesses complying with the law were not placed at a disadvantage.
He said illegal importation had broader consequences for legitimate commerce and public confidence.
“Illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods, and erodes public confidence. We will not permit it to continue unchecked,” he added.
The NEPZA chief executive nevertheless assured operators that the Authority would continue to apply its regulatory powers fairly, transparently and in accordance with the law.
He said operators found to have breached the law would be required to face the appropriate consequences, while those with no connection to any wrongdoing should be allowed to continue their legitimate activities without unnecessary disruption.
According to him, protecting compliant businesses remains important to sustaining economic activity and supporting the objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Ogunyemi noted that most businesses operating within the zones remained compliant with the relevant regulations and continued to contribute to the country’s trade and economic development.
He said: “The diligence and integrity of the majority of our operators deserve recognition, not suspicion.
“The unlawful actions of a small minority must not be allowed to overshadow, discredit, or obstruct the achievements of the compliant majority. Our strengthened enforcement is directed precisely at those who break the rules, not at the many who uphold them.
“We remain fully committed to supporting, facilitating, and championing the businesses that operate within the law. I have also advised and encouraged the zones, directly and through their association, to self-police,’’ Ogunyemi added.
Speaking further, the NEPZA boss said the free trade zone scheme continued to make an important contribution to government revenue.
Ogunyemi urged the Federal Government, its relevant agencies and operators within the zones to ensure that the alleged misconduct of a few did not undermine the reputation and achievements of the wider sector.
