The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has grounded at least 60 private jets belonging to prominent individuals, including bank executives, oil moguls, and multinational company leaders, due to unpaid import duties amounting to billions of naira. The affected aircraft include luxury models such as Bombardier Global 6000, 6500, and 7500 series.
*Reasons for Grounding:*
- Failure to pay import duties
- Defaulting owners were given multiple appeals to regularize documentation or pay applicable duties
*Impact:*
- Private jet hangars at Lagos and Abuja airports have been sealed
- Affected owners are lobbying the Presidency for release of their aircraft
- Some owners have pledged to settle outstanding duties, with one commercial bank promising to clear its dues by next Tuesday
*Possible Relief:*
- NCS is considering temporary relief for some owners, allowing them to submit documentation and engage in discussions on settling outstanding duties
- A document dated June 4, 2025, allegedly signed by Deputy Comptroller-General C.K. Niagwan, indicates "temporary unsealing" of select grounded jets to facilitate compliance ¹ ².
The NCS has emphasized its commitment to enforcing compliance and collecting revenue for Nigerians, while urging private jet operators to adopt global best practices ¹.
