Nigeria Customs Service Launches AEO Program to Boost Trade Facilitation

Towards enhancing the ease of doing business and promoting trade facilitation in Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) program.

The initiative aims to streamline Customs clearance processes while ensuring transparency and inclusivity in line with international standards.

During a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi MFR emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service, other government agencies, and experts in boosting AEO programs.

“The AEO program cuts across virtually every player in the sector, and it allows us to address some of the issues faced by operators in the industry,” he said.

The launch of the AEO program follows the successful implementation of the Time Release Study (TRS) in February 2024, another measure aimed at optimizing the trading experience within Nigeria.

The Nigeria Customs Service is committed to running a successful pilot program, with selected importers, exporters, small and medium enterprises, customs license agents, logistics operators, and relevant government agencies participating.

Chief Superintendent of Custom and Project Manager of the AEO program, Awa Nnenna, explained that the pilot phase is designed to streamline Customs clearance processes while ensuring transparency and inclusivity in line with international standards.

The AEO program is a significant step forward for Nigeria’s trade environment, and its successful implementation could lead to a more efficient and transparent customs process, benefiting businesses and the economy as a whole.