‘How We Leveraged On AEO Programme To Reduce Clearance Time’ – Adeniyi

BY FUNMI ALUKO

Operators presented with cetificates of compliance in a group photo with the CGC and other stakeholders

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, weekend, spoke about how the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) adopted aspects of the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme to enhance its operations during the official launch of the AOE on Friday, 14 February 2025.

CGC Adeniyi, fifth from left with CEOs of government agencies and captains of industry during the event

Speaking at the event held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos, the CGC while highlighting the crucial role of trust and collaboration in the programme’s success remarked that officers ensured that the AOE was adapted to boost trade facilitation which led to significant reduction in clearance time.

A statement signed and made available by the Customs National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada quoting the CGC as saying:

“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.”

The CGC noted that 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 NGN 185.8 billion in 2023 to NGN 563.8 billion in 2024.

Customs management chiefs including ACG Dera Nnadi, mni (middle) who as CAC TCIP Command, had the mandate to operationalize the AOE trial

Reaffirming the NCS’s commitment to efficiency and security, CGC Adeniyi stated: “As we fully implement the AEO programme today, our dedication to efficiency, security, and prosperity remains unwavering. The early success of our pilot phase has shown that we can achieve—and surpass—our targets, setting new benchmarks for trade facilitation in Africa.”

He further announced that the AEO portal will open on 17 February 2025 for eligible importers, exporters, terminal operators, logistics companies, customs brokers, and freight forwarders that have demonstrated compliance.

Comptroller B. Olomu third from right with other officers during the launch

In her welcome address, Deputy Comptroller General of Customs (DCG) for Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, also highlighted aspects of the programme’s significance.

NCS Spokesman, AC A. Maiwada a compere per excellence, doing what he knows best.

“The AEO programme will not only improve port efficiency but also attract investment, reduce costs, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global market,” she said, urging stakeholders to support the initiative for national benefit.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to the six pilot AEO companies. They expressed gratitude to the NCS for the recognition and pledged to remain compliant and transparent.