In a significant policy shift, the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has announced an increase in the cost of sending packages abroad, specifically targeting shipments to the United States.
Effective August 29, 2025, Nigerians will be required to pay a prepaid customs fee of $80—or its equivalent in naira—for every package sent to the US, with the exception of letters and documents. This new fee is a direct response to a recent Executive Order from the United States, which has suspended de minimis exemptions for all postal shipments globally.
The decision to enforce this substantial fee comes at a time when many Nigerians are already grappling with a heightened cost of living. The government’s recent measures aimed at increasing revenue have added layers of financial burden on citizens, and this latest increase in postal fees is likely to exacerbate those challenges. As everyday expenses rise, the additional cost of sending packages internationally could deter many from utilizing postal services, particularly small businesses that rely on shipping goods to customers abroad.
NIPOST outlined that this fee will apply to all postal items sent to the US and will be collected at the point of acceptance in Nigeria. The agency has emphasized that only letters and documents will remain exempt from this new mandatory prepaid customs duty. This move highlights a growing trend of increased taxation and fees that have been placed upon ordinary Nigerians, raising concerns about the long-term impact on trade and personal communications.
Furthermore, the circular released by NIPOST indicates that the new fee is part of a broader shift in global logistics operations. Airlines and cargo carriers are adopting more stringent measures in handling shipments destined for the US, leading to extended transit and processing times.
These changes may result in delivery delays for packages, compounding the frustrations of individuals and businesses alike. Each shipment bound for the US will also be subjected to customs checks upon arrival, further complicating the logistics of sending goods internationally.
NIPOST has expressed its commitment to mitigating service disruptions while engaging with international bodies such as the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Despite these assurances, many customers may feel apprehensive about the reliability of mail services in light of the new regulations and the potential for delays.
As this new fee comes into effect, it raises questions about the future of international shipping for Nigerians. The additional financial burden could lead to a decline in the volume of packages sent abroad, affecting not just individuals but also small and medium enterprises that depend on international markets. The increase in costs reflects a worrying trend, wherein government policies seem to disproportionately affect the average citizen, pushing essential services further out of reach.
In summary, the introduction of an $80 customs fee for sending packages to the US marks a significant shift in NIPOST’s operations and adds to the growing list of financial challenges facing Nigerians. As the government continues to implement policies that increase the tax burden on its citizens, there is a pressing need for dialogue around the implications of such measures on everyday life and commerce. The upcoming changes will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of international shipping for many, raising concerns over accessibility and affordability in an already strained economic environment.
