### Nigeria Customs Service Implements New Standards for Courier Operations The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at regulating courier companies operating under the Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) regime. This move is part of a broader effort to align local practices with global standards, ensuring that courier operations are conducted efficiently and transparently. The new SOP introduces stricter compliance measures, including licensing requirements and advance manifest submissions, to enhance oversight and accountability within the courier sector [https://punchng.com/ncs-enforces-global-standards-on-courier-ddp-regime][https://businessday.ng/maritime/article/nigeria-customs-tightens-rules-for-courier-firms-under-ddp-regime]. ### Structure of the New Standard Operating Procedure 1. **Regulatory Framework**: The SOP establishes a comprehensive framework for registration, manifest submission, declaration, valuation, clearance, delivery, and compliance monitoring for courier companies [https://themomentng.com/2026/01/13/nigeria-customs-launches-new-procedure-for-duty-paid-courier-operations]. 2. **Licensing Requirements**: Courier firms must now obtain licenses to operate under the DDP regime, ensuring that only compliant companies can engage in these activities [https://guardian.ng/news/ncs-introduces-new-operating-standards-for-courier-companies]. 3. **Advance Manifest Submission**: Companies are required to submit advance manifests, which will facilitate better tracking and management of shipments [https://tv360nigeria.com/customs-tightens-rules-on-courier-firms-as-new-ddp-operating-framework-takes-effect]. 4. **Stricter Compliance Measures**: Enhanced compliance measures will be enforced to ensure that courier companies adhere to the new regulations, promoting accountability and reducing the risk of fraud [https://shipsandports.com.ng/nigeria-customs-service-issues-new-guidelines-for-courier-firms]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Implementation Date**: The new SOP was officially announced on January 12, 2026, and has been in effect since then [https://newsdiaryonline.com/ncs-launches-new-procedure-for-duty-paid-courier-operations]. - **Key Features**: - Licensing for courier firms. - Requirement for advance manifest submissions. - Stricter compliance measures to ensure adherence to regulations. - **Objective**: The primary goal of these changes is to standardize operations and enhance the efficiency of courier services in Nigeria, aligning them with international best practices [https://dmarketforces.com/ncs-launches-new-procedure-for-duty-paid-courier-operations]. ### Conclusion: A Step Towards Enhanced Courier Operations In summary, the Nigeria Customs Service's implementation of the new Standard Operating Procedure for courier companies marks a significant step towards modernizing and regulating the courier industry in Nigeria. The key findings from this initiative include: 1. **Regulatory Compliance**: The introduction of licensing and compliance measures aims to ensure that courier operations meet international standards. 2. **Operational Efficiency**: By requiring advance manifest submissions, the NCS seeks to improve the tracking and management of shipments. 3. **Enhanced Oversight**: Stricter compliance measures will help mitigate risks associated with fraud and inefficiency in the courier sector. These changes are expected to foster a more reliable and accountable courier service environment in Nigeria, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike [https://famenewsonline.com/2026/01/13/nigeria-customs-service-commences-implementation-of-standard-operating-procedure-for-courier-companies-operating-under-delivered-duty-paid-ddp-regime].