The Federal Government has grounded at least 60 private jets at major airports across the country in a sweeping enforcement action targeting unpaid import duties running into billions of naira.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which is leading the operation, confirmed that several high-end private aircraft—including Bombardier Global 6000, 6500, and 7500 models—have been impounded as part of the clampdown.
According to Sources, the move followed a months-long verification exercise aimed at identifying private jet owners who failed to comply with customs regulations. The enforcement has also led to the sealing of private jet hangars at Lagos and Abuja airports.
Originally scheduled to begin on October 14, 2024, the exercise was extended to November 14, 2024, after which the NCS issued final warnings to defaulters. However, enforcement was delayed due to ongoing court cases.
Fresh developments on Wednesday revealed that the NCS had quietly commenced grounding of both privately and corporately owned jets earlier in the week. Sources said officials sealed several aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Among those affected are top bank executives, oil magnates, and CEOs of multinational corporations. Many are reportedly lobbying the Presidency and other influential figures to secure the release of their jets.
Confirming the development, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada said, “Yes, enforcement has started. The aircraft are grounded for non-payment of customs duty. Once they regularise their documentation and pay what is due, they can reclaim their jets.”
Maiwada explained that the NCS had extended the verification deadline multiple times and issued public notices urging compliance before taking action.
“We’ve done our part—now we must enforce. This revenue belongs to Nigerians and must be recovered,” he said.
He also revealed that several private jet owners ignored multiple appeals and official communications, prompting the current enforcement action. “Now that they’ve been grounded, we expect them to respond and comply,” he added.
Reliable sources within the Customs Service noted that some affected individuals and companies have begun negotiations to resolve their outstanding dues. One major commercial bank has reportedly committed to clearing its debt by next Tuesday, while another is using intermediaries to negotiate payment.
An energy firm operating three private jets has also pledged to settle its outstanding liabilities within the week.
