7% Import Surcharge Sparks Protests at Onne Port, Threatens Revenue Collection

Story: Written by Zara February 8,2026
A 7% surcharge on imports has ignited tensions at Onne Port in Rivers State, with freight forwarders warning that multiple taxation is affecting their businesses and could impact port revenue.
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, members of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), alongside the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (ARFFN), National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), and the National Council of Managing Directors of Customs Licensed Agents, began picketing offices of Pacific International Lines (PIL). The protest is aimed at enforcing a ban on dealings with the shipping company until their demands—primarily the reversal of the 7% surcharge—are met.
Ifeanyi Isikaku, ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter chairman, explained that the surcharge is being levied both by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and shipping lines like PIL, effectively creating a double taxation scenario. “Shipping lines in Nigeria have been charging us 7% surcharge, including NPA and Port Development Levy. Customs also apply the same 7% on duties. We are asking them to remove this from invoices,” he said.
The protest, now entering its second day, comes as customs officials warn that a prolonged standstill could threaten revenue generation. Area II Command Comptroller, Aliyu Mohammed Alkali, highlighted that the port recorded a 15.4% increase in revenue in 2025 compared to 2024, emphasizing that proper documentation and compliance remain key to sustaining revenue growth. He also called for strict adherence to cargo clearance procedures, proper use of Pre-Arrival Assessment Reports (PAAR), and accurate container tracking.
The freight forwarders are pressing PIL to maintain charges at previous levels, following directives from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council that recommended stakeholder consultations before implementing any increase.
The dispute underscores ongoing friction between shipping lines, customs authorities, and traders over import costs, surcharges, and operational transparency.