The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has extended the deadline for all beneficiaries of the Fast Track Scheme to migrate to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme from December 31, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
Announcing the extension, NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada said the move reflects the service’s commitment to deepening trade facilitation, securing supply chains, and aligning operations with global best practices.
“The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and obtain AEO certification without disruption to their business operations,” the statement read, describing the extension as a reinforcement of NCS’s dedication to a seamless and inclusive transition for all stakeholders.
Maiwada explained that the migration aligns with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the NCS Act, 2023. He urged all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who have not yet completed the transition to initiate and finalize their AEO applications via the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.
“For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders can reach the dedicated helpdesk at aeo@customs.gov.ng. Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to enjoy the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme,” he added.
The AEO programme, Maiwada noted, is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that provides trusted operators with significant benefits, including expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.
In support of the migration, the NCS will host a comprehensive stakeholders’ engagement forum on December 18 in Lagos, where participants will receive practical guidance on the migration process, live demonstrations of the application procedures, and clarity on compliance requirements. The forum will also allow direct interaction with the AEO implementation teams.
“The NCS urges all Fast Track beneficiaries to leverage this extension, actively participate in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme. This proactive involvement ensures regulatory compliance, strengthens supply chain efficiency, and fosters a collaborative business environment,” Maiwada said.
He reaffirmed the service’s commitment to enhancing trade efficiency, boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness, safeguarding national revenue, and promoting a transparent, secure, and predictable cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate businesses.
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