NCS Extends AEO Migration Deadline to January 2026, Fixes Another Stakeholder Engagement

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Thursday, 11 December 2025, said it has extended the deadline for the migration of all beneficiaries under the Fast Track Scheme to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, from 31 December 2025 to 31 January 2026.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada PhD for the Comptroller General of Customs.

According to the statement, the development is in furtherance of the Service’s commitment to deepening trade facilitation, securing supply chain and strengthening compliance in accordance with global standards.

DC Maiwada explained that the extended timeline will provide operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations.

He also informed that the Service has scheduled another Stakeholders engagement for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns.

Stakeholders are thus encouraged to take advantage of the extension period to participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.

The statement partly reads, “All existing Fast Track beneficiaries yet to complete their migration are advised to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.

“For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders may reach the dedicated helpdesk via aeo@customs.gov.ng. Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.

“The AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.

“This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023″.

The extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders”.