The Nigeria Customs Service has strengthened indigenous companies participation in international trade with the certification of 6 firms as first beneficiaries of it’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) scheme
Six Nigerian companies chosen from the small, medium and big enterprises have emerged as pilotees of the AEO programme created by the NCS to boost their participation in international trade following their compliant records.
First Class Refreshments; Le-Look Nigeria Limited;11 PLC; Huawei Technologies Limited; Friesland Campina WATCH and Ideal Royal Crown Logistics have emerged the first in the scheme from the country, opening the way for others.
According to Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, a total of twelve companies were enlisted in the scheme but the celebrated six met all stipulated requirements
Adeniyi, who highlighted the crucial role of trust and collaboration in the programme’s success ,said the NCS partnership with the companies is built on mutual trust between Customs authorities and them
He stated that such business entities, offering reciprocal benefits through official recognition of reliable business partners. Maintaining trusted operator status requires continuous investment in compliance and security measures
According to him,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.
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.
The AEO programme is backed by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to encourage compliant operators and strengthen their presence in trade within the jurisdiction of a local customs administration and across international borders
The scheme encourages economic operators to comply with customs rules, adopt safety and security standards, and Improve supply chain efficiency. AEO certification and benefits are open to importers, exporters, manufacturers, brokers, transportation companies, ports, airports, borders warehouses, and distributors
Originally,it was a fallout from the United States, Canada, and other countries trade policies implemented towards enhanced security after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
The AEO programme will not only improve port efficiency but also attract investment, reduce costs, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global market.
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.
About AEO
An Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a business that has been approved by customs to move goods internationally. AEOs adhere to international customs regulations and supply chain security standards.
Benefits of AEO
Faster clearance: AEOs can clear goods more quickly, cheaply, and smoothly
Improved supply chain: AEOs can improve supply chain efficiency and security
Better security management: AEOs can use electronic transactions and other security features to manage supply chain security deploying and maximising the benefits of information communication technology (ICT)
The Companies
Huawei Nigeria Limited Huawei has been driving Nigeria’s digital transformation since 1999, providing ICT infrastructure for telecoms, e-Governmnent, Smart Cities, and renewable energy. Its contributions have earned multiple awards, including the National Productivity Merit Award in 2021 and the Excellence in Technological Innovations Award (2020-2022).
Le-Look Nigeria Ltd Chief Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lelook Nigeria Limited, a company she founded in 1985. Her bold vision and business expertise have pro-pelled Lelook Nigeria Limited to become a leading bag manufacturing enterprise in Africa, garnering international acclaim and numerous awards.
FrieslandCampina WAMCo Nigeria PLC FrieslandCampina WAMCo Nigeria PLC produces dairy brands like Peak and Three Crowns. Established in 1973. Partnering with the Nigerian government since 2011, it promotes sustainable dairy farming and Value4Dairy Consortium. The company aligns with Nigeria’s policy for a sustainable dairy sector.
11 PLC (Double One PLC) 11 PLC (Double One PLC) is a major oil company in Nigeria, operating over 250 Mobil outlets nationwide. It supplies fuel, lubricants, LPG, and aviation fuel, with a state-of-the-art lube plant in Lagos. Committed to safety, ethics, and CSR, it also has interests in real estate.
First Class Refreshments Ltd (FCR) First Class Refreshments Ltd (FCR) was founded in 2017 to create value from local resources. Commissioned by Mr. Femi Adesina with support from media and business leaders, it focuses on producing quality Nigerian products, job creation, ana investment opportunities.
Ideal Royal Crown Logistics Limited Ideal Royal Crown Logistics Limited is a Nigerian logistics company incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990 (RC No. 830212). It has grown significantly through industry best practices to become a key player in both local and international logistics. The company boasts a highly trained and experienced workforce, sup- ported by world-class technology, ensuring fast and efficient service for its clients.
