The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the official migration from its current Fast Track Scheme to the internationally acclaimed Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme. This transition, scheduled to take full effect by December 31, 2025, is part of a strategic overhaul aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s trade facilitation systems in line with international best practices.
The AEO Programme, backed by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 and rooted in the World Customs Organisation’s SAFE Framework of Standards, is designed to provide streamlined customs benefits for compliant, financially stable, and security-conscious importers and exporters. These benefits include pre-arrival clearance, reduced physical inspection, faster cargo release, and mutual recognition with global customs bodies.
According to a press release issued by the NCS Public Relations Office on August 1, 2025, the AEO initiative promises to boost cargo integrity, build trust with stakeholders, and deliver a more predictable and transparent customs environment for Nigeria’s import-export community. It replaces the outgoing Fast Track Scheme, which will be officially decommissioned at the end of the year.
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Companies currently benefitting from the Fast Track Scheme are now required to transition by applying through the AEO Compliance portal at aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. Only businesses successfully migrated and approved under the new AEO system will retain access to preferential treatment and expedited customs procedures.
To kickstart the nationwide sensitisation campaign, the NCS has scheduled a Stakeholders Engagement Forum for Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Bon Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. This event will convene key players in Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, including importers, exporters, terminal operators, logistics providers, and licensed customs agents, to educate them on the AEO Programme’s benefits, compliance criteria, and registration process. The interactive session will also provide a platform for stakeholders to engage directly with Customs officers driving the new initiative.
The Nigeria Customs Service is urging all eligible operators to embrace the AEO Programme as a path to sustainable competitiveness, faster cargo clearance, and alignment with global trade systems. With a renewed focus on compliance, secure trade, and procedural efficiency, the NCS aims to elevate Nigeria’s position on global trade indexes, while reinforcing trust, transparency, and security across supply chains.
This historic transition marks a turning point in Nigeria’s journey toward modernised, tech-driven, and globally trusted customs operations, a game changer for legitimate businesses navigating the complexities of international trade.
