The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially commenced the administration of rewards for the first set of beneficiaries under the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, an initiative aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business in Nigeria. Effective from September 2, 2024, the program targets approved importers, exporters, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), customs licensed brokers, and logistics operators who have demonstrated outstanding compliance within the supply chain.
This landmark initiative aligns with global best practices and is designed to improve trade facilitation, address existing challenges within the supply chain, and elevate Nigeria’s position in the international trading community. The benefits under this program will be continuously administered, contingent on the sustained compliance of the selected participants with the program’s provisions.
The inaugural participants of the AEO program were meticulously selected following an exhaustive three-month validation process to ensure the highest standards of selection. The program is being implemented under the guidance of the World Customs Organization (WCO), which has provided expert support in capacity development, training, and the supply of essential materials.
Key partners, including the World Bank’s Accelerating Revenue Mobilization Reforms (ARMOR) and various global customs administrations, notably His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) of the United Kingdom, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), have significantly contributed to the success of this initiative through benchmarking exercises and technical support.
Under the AEO program, consignments belonging to the selected operators will receive preferential treatment, including automatic Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) registration, direct green lane routing, the assignment of a dedicated relationship manager, and AEO branding. As the pilot phase progresses, participants will be awarded certificates formally recognizing their status as Authorized Economic Operators, provided they maintain ongoing compliance with the established provisions. The pilot phase is operational across all ports, where valuable insights will be gathered to enhance service delivery.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, emphasized the importance of robust support from all stakeholders, including other government agencies and development partners, in ensuring the success of the pilot phase. He stated, “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.”
The NCS remains committed to promoting transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business. The successful implementation of this pilot phase marks a significant milestone in the Service’s ongoing efforts to align with international best practices and foster a secure and seamless trading environment for all Nigerians.