NCS Educates Stakeholders on Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme’s Benefits, Implementation
ZAINAB JUNAID
As part of the commitment to building a more efficient and secure trade environment in the Country, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Wednesday, hosted a Stakeholders’ engagement forum on the Authorised Economic Operator, (AEO) Programme benefits and implementation in Lagos.
The event themed “From Fast Track to AEO: Enhancing Trade Facilitation and Supply Chain Security in Nigeria” is both timely and strategic as it captured the direction of the Service’s reforms.
In his keynote address, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by the Zonal Coordinator, ACG Charles Orbih, affirmed that the scheme aims to support legitimate trade, enhance economic competitiveness, and strengthen national security through smarter, more collaborative approaches.
Adeniyi explained that the Fast Track Scheme had provided early benefits to compliant importers for over a decade, and this did not go without some teething challenges.
According to him, the limitations include: the absence of a legal framework and the changing dynamics of the supply chain.
“It became clear that we needed to migrate to a model that is structured, risk-based, transparent, and globally recognized.
”That is what led to the design and implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programme,” he stated.
The CGC stressed that the programme is not just a new policy but a paradigm shift in the way Customs interacts with the private sector.
“Developed in line with the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework of Standards, particularly its Second Pillar “Customs-to-Business partnerships” the AEO Programme promotes a modern system of risk management, facilitation, and compliance.
“The programme was first piloted in Nigeria on 15th April 2024, and following thorough testing, capacity building, and stakeholder consultations, the national launch was held on 14th February 2025.,” he explained.
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Speaking further, he noted that the aim is to identify and reward businesses that demonstrate consistent compliance with Customs and tax regulations by granting them faster, more predictable, and more efficient clearance processes.
”AEO certified businesses enjoy a wide range of benefits, including: Faster cargo clearance and release; Reduced physical inspections; Dedicated service desks at ports and terminals, Priority treatment during disruptions or port congestion; Improved dispute resolution channels; Greater supply chain visibility and global recognitionBut these benefits are not theoretical. The results are already measurable.
“A recent Time Release Study (TRS) conducted by the Service shows that the average clearance time for AEO traders is now 43 hours, which is a significant reduction compared to non-AEO traders. It means less cost, faster delivery, and better control over your supply chains.This reform not only supports trade facilitation but helps Nigeria meet its obligations under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, making our trade ecosystem more competitive and business-friendly,” he said.
Also, Assistant Comptroller-General ZA Chiroma in charge of the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) unit asserted that the forum is a pivotal milestone in the Service collective journey towards a modern, efficient, and risk-managed administration.
“It reflects the Service’s unwavering commitment to align with global standards—particularly those prescribed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and anchored under Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023,” she said. “Themigration is taking place within the broader framework of NCS reform, one that is anchored on transparency, efficiency, and evidence-based compliance management. Central to this reform is the transformation of the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) regime”.
ACG Chiroma noted that since the realignment of PCA Unit to the Office of the Comptroller General of Customs, the Unit has embarked on significant reforms notably establishing Risk based approach to audits and framework on Comprehensive audits – onsite (field) audits as empowered in Section 36 (4) of the NCS Act 2023.
To her, the new reforms has not only enhance post-clearance control but also complement the AEO Programme’s objectives of promoting trade facilitation, voluntary compliance, reducing physical interventions.
”Let me remind that the Fast Track Scheme will be formally decommissioned on 31st December 2024 emphasising all existing beneficiaries are required to submit fresh AEO applications through our official portal: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.
”The Service has established clear operational guidelines, a competent AEO Unit, and a trained team of validators to ensure a smooth and credible transition process.
“This forum today is not just about information dissemination—it is about stakeholder inclusion. We want to listen, respond, and co-create a more efficient and predictable trade environment for all,” she concluded.