Nigeria Customs Service Transitions to Global-Standard Trade Facilitation Programme

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a major overhaul of its trade facilitation framework, confirming the full migration from its existing Fast Track Scheme to the internationally recognized Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programme effective January 2026. This strategic shift, authorized under Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, brings Nigeria into alignment with global best practices under the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework of Standards.

The transition marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s trade modernization agenda, with the current Fast Track Scheme set to be officially discontinued on December 31, 2025. All current beneficiaries of the Fast Track Scheme must complete their migration to the new AEO system through the dedicated portal at aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng to maintain their trade facilitation privileges.

The AEO Programme represents a comprehensive upgrade to Nigeria’s trade infrastructure, offering approved operators substantial benefits including pre-arrival clearance processing, significantly reduced physical inspection rates, expedited cargo release timelines, and potential mutual recognition with over 84 customs administrations worldwide. The program is specifically designed to enhance supply chain security while improving trade efficiency.

Customs Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative, stating that it demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to trade transparency and supply chain security. Industry analysts project the program could reduce cargo dwell times by up to 58% from the current 21-day average and cut trade compliance costs by 40%, potentially improving Nigeria’s position on the World Bank Trading Across Borders Index where it currently ranks 179th.

To ensure smooth implementation, the NCS will host a major stakeholder engagement forum on August 6, 2025, at the Bon Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. The event will provide detailed information on the program’s tiered certification levels, application requirements, and technological integration. Participants will have the opportunity to interact directly with NCS officials overseeing the transition.

Trade expert Dr. Muda Yusuf highlighted the program’s significance for Nigeria’s economic integration, noting that compliant operators could eventually achieve clearance times comparable to regional leaders like South Africa. The NCS has established a 150-day transition window for existing Fast Track beneficiaries, while new applicants will undergo a rigorous 90-day vetting process including financial, security, and compliance checks.

This initiative forms part of broader customs modernization efforts that include the upcoming National Single Window integration and expansion of electronic cargo tracking systems. As NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada stated, “This transition represents more than just faster clearance processes – it’s about positioning Nigeria as the premier trade hub in West Africa.”

The Nigeria Customs Service urges all affected businesses to begin their transition preparations immediately and to participate in the upcoming stakeholder forum to ensure seamless adaptation to the new system.