The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially announced a complete phase-out of its existing Fast Track Scheme, directing all participating companies to transition to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme by December 31, 2025.
This directive, issued in a statement on August 1, 2025, by Abdullahi Maiwada, Assistant Comptroller and National Public Relations Officer, forms part of Nigeria’s wider effort to modernise trade processes and align with global customs standards.
The AEO Programme is being adopted in accordance with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. The initiative will offer accredited businesses significant benefits, including:
- Pre-arrival clearance
- Minimal customs inspections
- Expedited release of goods
- Mutual recognition with other customs administrations in partner countries
“In furtherance of its commitment to align Nigeria’s trade facilitation procedures with international best practices, the NCS will commence the transition from the current Fast Track Scheme to the globally recognised Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme,” the statement read.
The NCS confirmed that the current Fast Track Scheme will be decommissioned effective December 31, 2025, marking the end of an era for importers and exporters relying on the previous model.
To remain eligible for accelerated cargo clearance and other trade facilitation benefits, all companies currently under the Fast Track Scheme must apply for AEO status at the official portal:
Application Requirements Include:
- Company Name
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Corporate Registration Number (CAC)
- Registered Address
- Valid Email
- Phone Number
Only firms accredited under the AEO Programme will be eligible to continue receiving priority treatment at Nigeria’s ports beyond the 2025 deadline.
To ensure a smooth transition and clarify the operational framework of the AEO Programme, the NCS will host a Stakeholders Engagement Forum on August 6, 2025, at the Bon Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.
Participants expected at the forum include:
- Importers and exporters
- Terminal operators
- Freight forwarders and logistics companies
- Licensed customs agents
- Representatives from SMEs and multinational firms
The engagement will serve as an orientation for new applicants and a technical workshop on how to successfully navigate the accreditation process.
Why the AEO Programme Matters
The Nigeria Customs Service emphasized that the AEO Programme is designed to strengthen supply chain security, foster predictability, and improve transparency in trade procedures.
According to the NCS, successful implementation of the AEO system will help Nigeria climb global trade indices such as the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings and the World Trade Organization’s trade facilitation scores.
“This policy shift is not only about compliance but about boosting competitiveness, enhancing trust, and accelerating customs processes through risk management and digital technology,” Maiwada noted.
What is an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)?
An Authorised Economic Operator is any stakeholder in the international supply chain such as an importer, exporter, customs broker, freight forwarder, transporter, or logistics provider, who meets specific criteria set by Customs and is granted special privileges to simplify and expedite their import/export operations.
The AEO Programme is rooted in:
- The WCO SAFE Framework
- The Revised Kyoto Convention
- Provisions from the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 (Sections 108–112)
Initially, the programme is being rolled out to importers, exporters, logistics operators, and SMEs, with other supply chain actors expected to be integrated in phases.
What This Means for Businesses
Businesses that fail to transition by December 31, 2025, risk losing access to fast-track customs benefits, including priority cargo handling and reduced inspection times. This may result in delays, increased costs, and potential compliance issues at ports and border posts.
The NCS has urged all affected firms to commence their application processes immediately to avoid disruptions.
