The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially begun implementing its Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) benefits program for a select group of approved importers, exporters, SMEs, customs-licensed brokers, and logistics operators.
Under this program, selected participants will receive special privileges, including automatic pre-arrival assessment report registration, direct green lane routing, access to a dedicated relationship manager, and AEO branding for their consignments.
NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, explained that once the pilot phase is complete and compliance is verified, participants will receive certificates recognizing their status as Authorised Economic Operators. He emphasized that continuous compliance with the program’s rules is required for participants to maintain their benefits.
Maiwada also noted that the initiative, which started on September 2, 2024, introduces new trade standards aligned with global best practices. The goal is to streamline trade, address supply chain challenges, and improve Nigeria’s global trade standing.
The programme was developed with the assistance of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), which provided expert training and essential materials. Additional support came from partners like the World Bank’s Accelerating Revenue Mobilisation Reforms and other global customs administrations, including the UK’s His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, South African Revenue Service, and Uganda Revenue Authority.
Maiwada highlighted that the pilot phase will operate across all ports in Nigeria, where data and insights will be collected to refine the service.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including other government agencies and development partners, to ensure the program’s success. “Collaboration is not just vital, it is essential for unlocking the full potential of the AEO program, which promises to significantly streamline trade processes and elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global trade arena,” Adeniyi said.
Adeniyi reaffirmed NCS’s commitment to promoting transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business, stating, “The successful implementation of this pilot phase represents a key milestone in the service’s pursuit of aligning with best practices towards efficient service delivery.”
