A Stiff Opposition: SEREC Condemns Proposed Increase in Maritime Agent Licence Fees

In a major development within Nigeria’s maritime sector, the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC) has thrown its weight behind other stakeholders in rejecting a proposed astronomical hike in maritime agent licence fees by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The group, in a statement obtained by journalists today, warned that the move could have a crippling effect on small and medium-sized enterprises and fuel inflation.

According to a recent report, the NCS has unveiled a new licensing structure scheduled to take effect in January 2026. Under the new plan, the fee for a new license will jump from a current N515,000 to an astounding N10 million, while the annual renewal fee will increase from N215,000 to N4 million. This represents a more than 2,000% increase for a new license, a figure that has sparked outrage across the industry.

In a statement signed by its Head of Research, Mr. Eugene Nweke, SEREC expressed deep concern that the proposed hike would “disproportionately affect small and medium-sized enterprises, which may struggle to absorb the increased costs.” The research group argued that such an exorbitant increase would be counterproductive, as the costs would inevitably be passed on to importers and, eventually, to consumers through higher prices for goods.

Other maritime stakeholders, including the Associations of Licensed Customs Agents, have also threatened to withdraw their services if the hike is implemented. The groups argue that the purpose of a licensing fee is for regulatory oversight and trade facilitation, not for revenue generation. They have also pointed out that Nigeria’s proposed fees are among the highest in the world, and that the annual renewal policy is out of sync with what is obtainable in other countries.

The NCS, in a statement earlier this month, had announced plans to review the fees as part of its “broader modernisation efforts.” It stated that the initiative was aimed at “promoting accountability, streamlining processes, and enhancing the quality of service delivery in the sector.” However, stakeholders remain unconvinced, arguing that the true motive is to generate revenue for the government and to push out smaller players in favor of larger, wealthier companies.

SEREC, in its recommendation, urged the Customs Service to adopt a more “balanced and nuanced approach” to licensing reform. The group proposed a tiered fee structure, with different levels of licenses based on factors such as experience and specialization. They believe this approach would promote professionalism and efficiency in the customs clearance process without stifling competition.

As the January 2026 deadline looms, the future of the Nigerian maritime industry hangs in the balance. The ongoing dispute between Customs and stakeholders highlights the deep-seated issues of policy formulation, transparency, and the delicate balance between government revenue and the ease of doing business in Nigeria.