The Nigeria Association of LPG Marketers is urging prompt implementation of a presidential directive to waive import duties on gas-related items, including imported Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The National President, Oladapo Olatunbosun, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the directive aimed at reducing the soaring price of LPG. However, Olatunbosun criticized the Nigeria Customs Service for its alleged delays in executing the directive.
Olatunbosun expressed disappointment that despite the circular sent by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, instructing concerned agencies to act, the Nigeria Customs Service seemed hesitant to comply. He emphasized the detrimental impact of this delay, citing ongoing demurrage costs incurred by members and the potential transfer of these additional expenses to consumers, ultimately thwarting the goal of lowering LPG prices.
“It is unfortunate that some people and agencies, particularly Nigeria Customs Service have refused to implement the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on waiver of import duty on gas items as well as imported gas among others,” said Olatunbosun, emphasizing the potential benefits of the presidential directive in expanding gas utilization and reducing prices.
Reacting to Olatunbosun’s statements, Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, clarified that the agency did not resist the directive. Maiwada explained that the Customs promptly issued circulars to state commands upon receipt of the Finance Minister’s letter, outlining the implementation requirements, which necessitate approval from the office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy.
The call for swift action on the presidential directive reflects the urgency to alleviate LPG import costs and ultimately lower prices for consumers. The collaboration and coordination between governmental bodies are pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of such directives, underscoring the necessity for expedited resolution to benefit the LPG industry and Nigerian consumers alike.
