Nigerians will now be required to pay a mandatory customs duty of $80 (or its naira equivalent) on every package sent to the United States, the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) announced on Friday, August 29. Letters and documents, however, remain exempt from this charge.
NIPOST explained that this policy comes in response to a U.S. Executive Order that suspends de minimis exemptions for all postal shipments worldwide—exemptions that previously allowed low-value packages to enter the U.S. without incurring customs duties.
“Effective August 29, 2025, and in compliance with the Executive Order, all postal items to the United States—except letters and documents—will now require a prepaid customs duty of USD $80 (or its naira equivalent) at the point of acceptance in Nigeria,” NIPOST stated in a circular.
The agency also noted that global logistics have been disrupted as airlines and cargo carriers enforce stricter handling protocols for shipments bound for the U.S. This may lead to longer transit and processing times, potentially causing delivery delays. Moreover, all packages will be subject to enhanced Customs inspections upon arrival in the United States.
NIPOST is actively coordinating with the Universal Postal Union (UPU), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and airline partners to minimize disruptions and maintain service reliability.
The announcement has raised concerns among frequent shippers, small businesses, and e-commerce operators in Nigeria, as the new fee is expected to significantly increase shipping costs, particularly for small parcels and low-value goods.
