The Nigeria Customs Service announced that its Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme generated a revenue increase of N362.79 billion among 51 certified companies as of October 27, 2025. Revenue rose from N1.222 trillion before certification to N1.585 trillion after certification, representing a 29.68 percent increase and contributing 21.77 percent of the Service’s total revenue collection of N7.281 trillion in 2025. The programme, established under the World Customs Organisation SAFE Framework and the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, promotes trade facilitation by rewarding compliant importers and exporters with expedited cargo clearance and reduced inspections. Customs reported that average cargo clearance time declined from 168 hours to 41 hours, while operating costs and demurrage charges dropped significantly. Trade efficiency improved through digitalisation, simplified procedures, and targeted risk management. The Service also commended nine companies for voluntarily remitting over N1 billion to the Federation Account following self-audits and disclosures, demonstrating improved compliance culture. However, the programme faced a setback as a recently certified operator was suspended for false declaration of consignments, in accordance with the AEO Guidelines and Section 112 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. The development reflects ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing non-oil revenue generation, strengthening post-clearance audits, improving logistics performance, and supporting Nigeria’s industrialisation, export diversification, and regional trade integration objectives.
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