The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has applauded the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for introducing business-friendly reforms that have eased operations in the aviation sector.
A delegation from the AON Board of Trustees, led by its President, Abdulmunaf Sarina, paid a courtesy visit to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, in Abuja on Monday, September 22, 2025.
Welcoming the delegation, Adeniyi described AON as a key player in the nation’s economy, noting that the association’s contributions go beyond financial investment to include expertise and innovation. He explained that engagements with AON extended beyond the 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy, stressing that both parties had reached mutually beneficial resolutions.
The CGC listed reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, advanced ruling for importers, and the establishment of aviation desks at airports, seaports, and courier hubs. He also clarified that the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) was a regional obligation, not a unilateral Nigerian charge.
Speaking on behalf of AON, President Allen Onyema praised Adeniyi’s leadership for fostering dialogue and partnership. “In the past, dealing with Customs was like climbing a mountain blindly. Since assuming office, CGC Adeniyi has transformed the Service into one that listens, engages, and supports businesses,” he said.
Onyema also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing capable leaders like Adeniyi, noted that the reforms had boosted airline operations, created jobs, and improved revenue generation.
The AON pledged continued collaboration with the Customs Service to further strengthen Nigeria’s aviation industry and economy.
