Nigeria Customs Launches AEO Programme to Boost Trade and Reduce Clearance Time

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially launched the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and reducing clearance times for compliant businesses.

Speaking at the launch event at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi emphasized the programme’s foundation on trust and collaboration between Customs authorities and business entities.

“This partnership is built on mutual trust between Customs authorities and business entities, offering reciprocal benefits through official recognition of reliable business partners.

Maintaining trusted operator status requires continuous investment in compliance and security measures,” CGC Adeniyi stated.

The pilot phase, which commenced on 15 April 2024, proved to be a success, with six pilot AEO companies experiencing significant growth.

Their trade value surged from NGN 185.8 billion in 2023 to NGN 563.8 billion in 2024.

Reaffirming the NCS’s commitment to efficiency and security, CGC Adeniyi added:

“As we fully implement the AEO programme today, our dedication to efficiency, security, and prosperity remains unwavering. The early success of our pilot phase has shown that we can achieve—and surpass—our targets, setting new benchmarks for trade facilitation in Africa.”

As part of the full implementation, the AEO portal will open on 17 February 2025, allowing eligible importers, exporters, terminal operators, logistics companies, customs brokers, and freight forwarders to apply for participation, provided they meet compliance standards.

In her welcome address, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs (DCG) for Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, highlighted the programme’s economic significance.

“The AEO programme will not only improve port efficiency but also attract investment, reduce costs, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global market,” she noted.

A key moment at the event was the presentation of certificates to the six pilot AEO companies, who expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to uphold compliance and transparency.