The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a ₦362.79 billion revenue increase under its Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, highlighting the effectiveness of the initiative in boosting trade compliance, revenue generation, and operational efficiency.
The NCS also announced the suspension of an AEO-certified operator for false declaration of consignments, reinforcing its commitment to strict compliance and transparency.
Revenue Growth From AEO-Certified Operators
According to the NCS, the 51 AEO-certified entities generated ₦1.585 trillion in revenue as of October 27, 2025, up from ₦1.222 trillion prior to certification—a 29.68% increase.
Key statistics from the programme include:
- AEO contribution to total NCS revenue: 21.77% of ₦7.281 trillion in 2025
- Customs duties paid by participating companies: 85.66% growth
- Average compliance rate: 85.45%, with highest at 100% and lowest at 60%
The evaluation of AEO-certified companies was carried out using internationally recognized methodologies, aligned with the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework and provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
Trade Facilitation Gains
The programme has also significantly enhanced trade efficiency:
- Average cargo clearance time reduced from 168 hours to 41 hours (75.60% reduction)
- Company operating costs declined by 57.2%
- Demurrage payments fell by up to 90%
- Overall trade efficiency improved by 77.11%
These gains were attributed to digitalization, simplified procedures, and targeted risk management, which collectively reduced capital flight to foreign-owned port service providers and boosted foreign exchange retention.
Voluntary Remittances by Compliant Companies
The NCS commended several AEO-certified companies for voluntarily remitting over ₦1 billion into the Federation Account following self-initiated reviews and disclosures. Notable companies include:
- Coleman Technical Industries Limited
- WACOT Rice Limited
- ROMSON Oil Field Services Ltd
- WACOT Limited
- Chi Farms Ltd
- CORMART Nigeria Ltd
- PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc
- Nigerian Bottling Company Limited
- MTN Nigeria Communications Plc
This demonstrates a growing culture of voluntary compliance encouraged by enhanced post-clearance audit mechanisms.
Suspension of Erring Operator
Despite successes, the NCS identified a compliance breach by a recently certified AEO company engaged in false declaration of consignments. Acting under the directive of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the operator’s AEO status was immediately suspended in accordance with the AEO Guidelines, the WCO SAFE Framework, and Section 112 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
“Trust, transparency and continuous compliance remain non-negotiable. While compliant operators enjoy expedited clearance and reduced inspections, sanctions will be promptly applied for violations,” the NCS stated.
Commitment to Revenue Protection and Trade Integrity
The AEO Programme continues to:
- Safeguard national revenue
- Facilitate legitimate trade
- Preserve the integrity and global credibility of Nigeria’s AEO framework
- Deepen reforms across ports and borders
By combining strict compliance enforcement with incentives for certified operators, the NCS aims to strengthen Nigeria’s trade ecosystem and ensure sustainable revenue growth.
Key Highlights:
- ₦362.79bn revenue increase from 51 AEO-certified operators
- 29.68% growth in revenue post-certification
- Average compliance rate of 85.45%
- Cargo clearance time reduced by 75.6%
- Voluntary remittances exceeded ₦1bn
- Immediate suspension of erring operator reinforces strict compliance
The AEO Programme demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to transparent trade facilitation while rewarding compliant operators and deterring malpractices in import/export activities.
