The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has extended the deadline for beneficiaries of the Fast Track Scheme to migrate to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme. The new deadline is January 31 2026, replacing the previous cut‑off of December 31 2025. This extension gives operators additional time to meet the programme’s requirements and obtain AEO certification without disrupting their business operations.
NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada said the move reflects the service’s commitment to facilitating trade, securing supply chains and adhering to global standards. The migration from the Fast Track Scheme to the AEO Programme aligns with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by the NCS Act, 2023. The AEO Programme, a globally recognised initiative, offers trusted operators benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation and lower inspection levels.
To complete the migration, existing Fast Track beneficiaries must initiate and finalize their AEO applications through the official platform at aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. For assistance, stakeholders can contact the dedicated helpdesk at [email protected].
The NCS will host a stakeholder engagement forum on December 18 in Lagos to provide guidance on the AEO migration process and address compliance‑related concerns. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with AEO implementation teams and obtain comprehensive information on programme requirements and benefits.
The extension and the upcoming forum underscore the NCS’s commitment to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness and promoting a predictable, secure cargo‑clearance ecosystem. By migrating to the AEO Programme, Fast Track beneficiaries can ensure regulatory compliance, improve supply‑chain effectiveness and contribute to a collaborative environment that benefits all parties. The NCS urges all Fast Track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extended period and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.
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