The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announced that its pilot Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme has saved importers, logistics operators, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) ₦100 million in just four months. The revelation was made during the AEO Pre-launch Stakeholder Engagement and Sensitisation on Post-Clearance Audit and Advance Ruling held on Wednesday in Lagos.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Assistant Comptroller-General Kingsley Egwuh, disclosed that the official launch of the AEO programme is scheduled for February 14, 2025. The AEO programme is a key part of NCS’ modernisation efforts aimed at aligning Nigeria with global trade facilitation and supply chain security standards.
“The AEO programme is designed to foster a seamless and efficient trading environment by promoting a trusted partnership between Customs and economic operators. It embodies transparency, efficiency, and mutual benefits,” Egwuh stated.
Since its pilot phase launched on April 15, 2024, with six beneficiaries spanning importers, logistics operators, and SMEs, the initiative has yielded significant financial and operational improvements. By September 2, 2024, the administration of AEO benefits began, and in four months, stakeholders realised cost savings of approximately ₦100 million.
“This is the ease of doing business in action. Beyond financial savings, the programme has improved efficiency, streamlined processes, and ensured goods move more swiftly and securely through the supply chain,” Egwuh said.
The AEO programme is complemented by initiatives such as Advance Ruling and Post-Clearance Audit (PCA). According to Egwuh, these tools foster compliance and provide predictability in the trading environment.
“NCS Advance Ruling programme was implemented to fulfill legal obligations under Standard 9 of the WCO-RKC 2006 and the WTO-TFA 2017, offering transparency and predictability for trade while ensuring voluntary compliance and securing government revenue,” he explained.
The implementation of PCA reforms has also bolstered compliance monitoring after goods are cleared, reducing delays and maintaining operational integrity.
He said as the AEO programme approaches its full launch in February 2025, NCS is actively engaging stakeholders to share pilot findings, address gaps, and co-create solutions.
“Your insights and feedback are invaluable as we co-own this project to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability,” Egwuh added.
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