Ogunyemi Reaffirms Lawful FTZ Operations, Warns Rule Breakers of Full Regulatory Sanctions

By Chioma Vivian James

The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced a tougher enforcement regime against illegal container importation and other violations within Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones, warning operators that compliance with established regulations remains mandatory.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPZA, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, disclosed this in a statement issued by the Authority’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ogunyemi said the Authority was strengthening its regulatory posture to protect the integrity of the Free Trade Zone system and ensure that the secured marketplace operates in accordance with Nigerian law and internationally recognised standards.

He stressed that a Free Trade Zone operating licence is not merely a business permit, but a legal instrument that carries clear obligations for operators.

“Effective immediately, the Authority is tightening its enforcement posture against allegations of illegal importation of containers into our controlled spaces,” Ogunyemi said.

He explained that the new measures would include intensified inspections, closer scrutiny of documentation, coordinated action with relevant enforcement agencies and the full application of penalties prescribed by law.

According to him, operators who circumvent lawful import and export procedures, mis-declare goods or attempt to move containers through unauthorised channels should expect decisive regulatory action.

The NEPZA chief said the strengthened enforcement measures were aimed at protecting the integrity of the Authority’s systems, safeguarding public interest and creating a level playing field for legitimate businesses operating within the zones.

“Illegal importation undermines lawful commerce, exposes communities to unregulated goods, and erodes public confidence. We will not permit it to continue unchecked,” he said.

Fairness for Compliant Operators

While announcing the tougher stance, Ogunyemi emphasised that NEPZA would continue to apply its regulatory responsibilities with fairness, justice and transparency.

He maintained that operators found culpable of violating the law would be made to face the appropriate consequences, while businesses not implicated in any wrongdoing should be allowed to continue their legitimate operations without unnecessary disruption.

He said this approach was essential to sustaining economic activity and supporting the objectives of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Ogunyemi also acknowledged the contribution of the majority of operators within the Free Trade Zone sector, noting that many businesses conduct their activities responsibly, meet their regulatory obligations and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s trade and investment environment.

“The diligence and integrity of the majority of our operators deserve recognition, not suspicion,” he stated.

He cautioned that the alleged unlawful activities of a minority should not be allowed to overshadow or discredit the achievements of compliant businesses across the sector.

“Our strengthened enforcement is directed precisely at those who break the rules, not at the many who uphold them,” he added.

NEPZA Urges Self-Policing

Ogunyemi further disclosed that the Authority had encouraged operators and their representative associations to strengthen internal monitoring and self-policing mechanisms.

“We remain fully committed to supporting, facilitating, and championing the businesses that operate within the law. I have also advised and encouraged the zones, directly and through their association, to self-police,” he said.

He noted that the Free Trade Zone scheme continues to generate significant revenue for the government and contributes to the broader Nigerian economy.

The NEPZA boss therefore urged the Federal Government, its agencies and legitimate operators to ensure that the activities of a minority do not undermine the credibility and economic gains of the wider Free Trade Zone system.

The latest enforcement position signals a renewed regulatory push by NEPZA to strengthen compliance, protect legitimate trade and preserve confidence in Nigeria’s Free Trade Zone framework.