NCS to launch trade modernisation initiative in February after successful pilot phase

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that the full implementation of its Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme will officially commence on February 14, 2025, following the successful completion of a pilot phase that saved stakeholders N100 million in four months.

The AEO programme is a critical part of the NCS’s trade modernisation agenda, aimed at aligning Nigeria with global best practices in trade facilitation and supply chain security.

Speaking on behalf of Adewale Adeniyi, the comptroller general of customs, during the pre-launch, Kingsley Egwuh, the assistant comptroller general of customs explained the programme’s transformative potential.

“The AEO programme is a key component of our Service’s modernisation efforts,” Egwuh said. “It reflects our dedication to fostering a seamless and efficient trading environment, promoting a trusted partnership between Customs and economic operators, while encouraging transparency, efficiency, and mutual benefits.”

Launched on 15 April 2024, the pilot phase involved six participants, including importers, logistics operators, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Read also: Customs moves to replace NICIS II with new technology

According to the Customs CG, this phase provided essential insights into stakeholders’ needs and expectations, helping the Service establish a robust framework for the programme’s full rollout.

By September 2, 2024, the administration of AEO benefits began to ear fruit, delivering significant cost savings to participants. “Over four months, the beneficiaries have realised cost savings of approximately N100 million,” Egwuh stated

“This is ease of doing business in action,” he said stressing that the initiative streamlines processes, and ensures that goods move more swiftly and securely through the supply chain

Complementary initiatives, including Advance Ruling and Post-Clearance Audit (PCA), are integral to the AEO’s success, the CG noted.

These measures enhance compliance and predictability in the trading environment while allowing the NCS to ensure accountability after goods are released. The Service noted that these steps have helped reduce clearance delays and strengthened the integrity of its operations.

Looking ahead, Adeniyi urged stakeholders to leverage the momentum generated by the pilot phase.

“Let’s seize this opportunity to build on the successes of the pilot phase, refine our strategies, and set the stage for a future where trade in Nigeria is not only competitive but also a benchmark for the region and the world.”