The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched an online portal expected to cut down clearance times and improve trade efficiency for businesses that meet compliance standards.
The online portal for the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs says, is based on mutual trust between the Customs and businesses.
The portal, which went live on Monday, allows importers, exporters, terminal operators, logistics companies, customs brokers, and freight forwarders to apply for AEO status, Adeniyi says while speaking at the official launch last Friday in Lagos.
According to the Comptroller-General, “the pilot phase, which began on 15 April 2024, had been highly successful. The six pilot AEO companies demonstrated remarkable growth, with their collective trade value soaring from ₦185.8 billion in 2023 to ₦563.8 billion in 2024.”
Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Companies accredited under the programme will benefit from faster customs clearance, fewer inspections, and priority treatment at ports and borders.
“This partnership is built on mutual trust between Customs authorities and business entities, offering reciprocal benefits through official recognition of reliable business partners. Maintaining trusted operator status requires continuous investment in compliance and security measures,” Adeniyi adds.
According to the Comptroller-General, “the pilot phase, which began on 15 April 2024, had been highly successful. The six pilot AEO companies demonstrated remarkable growth, with their collective trade value soaring from ₦185.8 billion in 2023 to ₦563.8 billion in 2024.”
The AEO programme, which follows global standards set by the World Customs Organisation (WCO), is part of a broader effort to modernise Nigeria’s trade system. Many countries, including China, the United States, and South Africa, have implemented similar programmes to strengthen security while speeding up the movement of goods.
Nigeria Customs first introduced the AEO programme in April 2024, starting with a pilot phase. The newly launched portal now opens the process to more businesses that meet the required standards. Under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the programme will expand in phases, beginning with importers, exporters, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and logistics operators.
Caroline Niagwan, Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Tariff and Trade, says the programme would not only reduce delays at ports but also attract investment and improve Nigeria’s position in the global trade market.
At the launch event, the six pilot companies that first joined the programme received certificates from Nigeria Customs, recognising their compliance and commitment to trade transparency.
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