By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has appointed NOVA Merchant Bank as a duty collecting bank.
This development will enable the young bank handle duty payments for its clients in addition to process and issue custom bonds along with guarantees on their behalf.
A statement issued by the financial institution said this is in fulfilment of its commitment to constantly find new ways to serve its customers better. The bank now has the authorisation to collect import, excise and other duties for the customs.
“We are excited about this appointment because it would enhance efficiency and improve turnaround time for duty payments and other services offered by the Nigerian Customs Service for our clients,” MD/CEO of NOVA Merchant Bank, Mr Anya Duroha, was quoted as saying in the statement.
“This development is in line with the commitment of the Bank to be a one-stop solution shop for all trade and financial needs of its clients.
“The bank is positioned to provide end to end quality banking services to our clients. I commend the management for obtaining and delivering on this mandate within a short period of time,” Chairman of the bank, Mr Phillips Oduoza, was also quoted as saying in the press statement.
NOVA Merchant Bank is a financial institution offering an integrated suite of financial solutions covering wholesale banking, investment banking, asset management, wealth management, trade services, transaction banking, cash management and digital banking.
Dipo Olowookere 
Aduragbemi Omiyale