The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has set December 31, 2025, as the ultimate date for all import and export operators to transition from the present Fast Track Scheme to the globally recognised Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.
In an announcement launched on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, described the transition as a key step in aligning Nigeria’s commerce processes with worldwide requirements. He mentioned the transfer is in step with the World Customs Organisation’s SAFE Framework and backed by authorized provisions within the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
According to Maiwada, the AEO Programme is a structured system that rewards compliant and financially sound merchants with preferential remedy akin to pre-arrival clearance, diminished inspections, faster cargo launch, and attainable mutual recognition with customs authorities of different nations.
“This strategic initiative will officially replace the Fast Track Scheme by the end of 2025. Companies currently benefitting from the Fast Track must now begin their migration to the AEO Compliance Programme through the official application portal,” Maiwada said.
He famous that solely corporations licensed underneath the brand new programme would proceed to obtain facilitation advantages past the deadline.
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To support the transition, the Customs Service plans to host a stakeholders’ engagement discussion board. The discussion board will educate importers, exporters, terminal operators, and licensed customs brokers on the AEO’s targets, advantages, and utility necessities.
Maiwada emphasised the service’s dedication to fostering belief, transparency, and cargo safety inside Nigeria’s buying and selling surroundings, including that the adoption of the AEO framework would enhance Nigeria’s world commerce rating and streamline its cargo clearance processes.
He inspired all eligible companies to embrace the shift, describing the programme as a significant instrument for securing aggressive benefit and strengthening authentic commerce practices.
