In a bold move to align Nigeria’s trade processes with international standards, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the transition from its current Fast Track Scheme to the globally recognised Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.
The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, who noted that the transition is anchored on the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and backed by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
The AEO Programme is a structured compliance-based initiative that offers qualified and trusted businesses preferential treatment in customs procedures. Benefits include pre-arrival clearance, minimal physical inspections, expedited release of goods, and potential mutual recognition agreements with other customs administrations.
According to the NCS, the existing Fast Track Scheme will be officially decommissioned on 31 December 2025. All current beneficiaries are required to migrate to the new AEO Compliance Programme by applying through the dedicated portal: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. Only approved AEO participants will continue to enjoy the trade facilitation privileges previously associated with the Fast Track Scheme.
To further sensitise stakeholders and promote a seamless migration, the Nigeria Customs Service will host a Stakeholders Engagement Forum on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, at Bon Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The forum will bring together importers, exporters, terminal operators, licensed customs agents, and logistics providers to discuss the objectives, benefits, and application procedures of the AEO Programme. Participants will also interact directly with officers overseeing the programme’s implementation.
The Customs Service urged all eligible operators to take advantage of the AEO Programme to maintain their competitive edge while contributing to a more secure, transparent, and efficient trade ecosystem in Nigeria.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to modernising customs operations, promoting compliance-driven facilitation, and improving Nigeria’s position on the global trade index.
