The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced a tougher enforcement regime against the alleged illegal importation of containers into Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones, warning that operators who breach the law will face decisive action.
The Authority’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, said the measures would take effect immediately and include intensified inspections, tighter scrutiny of import documentation, coordinated operations with partner enforcement agencies, and the full application of penalties prescribed by law.
In a statement issued in Abuja by NEPZA’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh, Ogunyemi warned operators against mis-declaring goods, bypassing lawful import and export procedures, or moving containers through unauthorised channels.
“Illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods, and erodes public confidence. We will not permit it to continue unchecked,” he said.
Ogunyemi described the Free Trade Zone operating licence as a legal obligation and the foundation of a transparent marketplace capable of attracting legitimate global business.
He said the enforcement drive was intended to protect public interest, preserve the integrity of NEPZA’s systems, and ensure that compliant businesses could compete on a level playing field.
However, the NEPZA chief stressed that the crackdown would not be used to punish innocent operators. Businesses found culpable, he said, would face the consequences of Nigerian law, while those cleared of wrongdoing should be allowed to resume operations without delay.
He acknowledged that the overwhelming majority of operators conduct their businesses honestly and contribute significantly to government revenue and economic growth.
“The unlawful actions of a small minority must not be allowed to overshadow, discredit, or obstruct the achievements of the compliant majority,” Ogunyemi said.
He also urged operators and zone managers to strengthen internal monitoring and self-policing, assuring law-abiding businesses that NEPZA would continue to support and promote their operations as part of efforts to advance the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
