Mr Maiwada explained that the suspension period would allow the service to further engage with stakeholders while ensuring proper alignment with the act’s provisions.
In separate interviews with journalists on Monday in Ota, Ogun, Messrs Adegbite and Osabuohien said the policy would negatively impact the economy.
He described the levy as ill-timed and harmful to businesses and Nigerians.
Mr Maiwada said the directive was part of NCS`s new guidelines on dwell time for import and export consignments at port terminals across the nation.
He also appreciated stakeholders’ cooperation and understanding during this exercise.
The spokesperson said that the service also collected N15.8 billion in excise duties.
The programme is a trade facilitation concept driven globally by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
He said the officers were engaged in an acting capacity and redeployed to enhance strategic service delivery.Â
The food items included maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.
