GIE Logistics CEO Expresses Concerns Over Customs’ Renewal License Fee Hike

By Roland Ekama 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GIE Logistics Limited, Chief Ifechukwu Echezona, has expressed concerns over the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) recent decision to increase license renewal fees for freight agents.

Echezona, who was a guest on Radio 1.103.5 FM maritime programme Portbizness on Tuesday in Lagos, urged the service to reconsider the proposed fees for freight forwarders and licensed customs agents.

He stated that 50 percent of practitioners might lose their licenses due to the hikes, adding that the increase could also lead to a reduction in DTI operators and significant job losses.

The freight forwarder also noted that some licensed customs agents hold multiple agencies but allegedly abandon licenses with discrepancies, a move he opined gave rise for customs actions to increase the licenses.

When asked for his opinion on the new customs license renewal fee increase, the GIE CEO said, “To be honest, I don’t know what to say, but I pray that something can be done about it because it is too much. In a way, it will reduce the number of people operating DTI. About 50% of those with licenses will be affected.

“Some operators have four to five agencies, and I believe that is why customs is pushing for the hike, to reduce the number of license renewals. I pray the service’s management will make the right decision to ensure everyone in the business remains comfortable.”

Speaking on the issues affecting the B’odogwu platform, Echezona emphasized that change is constant and that the new online portal is here to stay.

He called on practitioners to support the indigenous platform despite the current teething problems impacting cargo clearance at the seaports.

Echezona added that despite the glitches, the B’odogwu platform is faster compared to NICIS 2, noting that customs officers are committed to resolving the issues.

Recall that in a sweeping regulatory update, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announced a dramatic increase in licensing and bond fees for clearing agents, freight forwarders, and related operators.

Starting January 2026, new license fees will soar to ₦10 million, up from ₦515,000—a staggering 20-fold increase.

Renewal fees will rise to ₦4 million (previously ₦215,000), while bank bond requirements will escalate to ₦20 million for importers and exporters (up from ₦350,000). Even bonded warehouse licenses will surge from ₦60,000 to ₦20 million, with renewal fees set at ₦10 million. Ship chandler licensing will also increase to ₦2 million, with renewals costing ₦1 million.