Reps Query Customs, NPA, Others Over Pre-Shipment Inspection

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has launched a probe into the operations of government agencies involved in pre-shipment inspection services, raising concerns about revenue losses and regulatory lapses. The investigation focuses on the roles played by agencies including the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Ports Authority.

Lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction during a parliamentary hearing over what they described as inconsistencies in the implementation of pre-shipment inspection procedures. The lawmakers argued that poor coordination among the relevant agencies may be undermining the country’s import monitoring and revenue collection systems.

During the session, the House committee also threatened to issue an arrest warrant for the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry after the official allegedly failed to appear before the committee to provide clarification on certain financial matters linked to the investigation.

Members of the committee stressed that pre-shipment inspection plays a critical role in ensuring that imported goods comply with Nigeria’s trade regulations while preventing under-declaration of cargo values. They noted that any irregularities in the process could significantly affect government revenue.

The lawmakers insisted that all agencies involved in the import inspection system must cooperate fully with the investigation. The House has pledged to continue the probe until it uncovers the root causes of the operational gaps and recommends reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s port and trade oversight mechanisms.