The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has extended the deadline for all beneficiaries under the Fast Track Scheme to migrate to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, as part of efforts to enhance trade facilitation, secure the supply chain, and strengthen compliance in line with global standards.
The Service announced that the original cut-off date of 31 December 2025 has now been shifted to 31 January 2026.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 11 December 2025, by Abdullahi Maiwada, PhD, Deputy Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, the NCS advised all Fast Track beneficiaries who have not completed their migration to promptly initiate and finalise their AEO applications via the official portal: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.
According to the Service, the extension is designed to give operators adequate time to meet programme requirements and obtain AEO certification without disrupting business operations.
For enquiries, technical support, or migration guidance, stakeholders may contact the dedicated helpdesk at aeo@customs.gov.ng.
The NCS stressed that only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to enjoy the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.
A globally recognised, compliance-driven initiative, the AEO Programme offers trusted traders several benefits, including expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection rates, pre-arrival processing, and improved predictability in cross-border trade. The transition is aligned with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and backed by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
As part of ongoing sensitisation efforts, the NCS has also announced a Stakeholders Engagement Forum to guide operators through the migration process. The forum, which will feature demonstrations of application procedures, compliance guidance, and interactions with AEO implementation teams, is scheduled for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs.
The Service urged all Fast Track beneficiaries to take full advantage of the extended timeline and participate actively in the forum to ensure a seamless transition. It added that proactive compliance will not only ensure adherence to regulatory standards but also enhance supply chain efficiency and sustainability.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to improving trade efficiency, boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness, safeguarding national revenue, and fostering a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance system that supports legitimate trade.
One Comment