The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced an extension of the deadline for beneficiaries of the Fast Track Scheme to migrate to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme. The new deadline is now January 31, 2026, instead of the previously set date of December 31, 2025. This decision aims to provide operators with sufficient time to meet the programme’s requirements and obtain AEO certification without disrupting their business operations.
According to NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada, the extension demonstrates 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 is a globally recognised initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits, including expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, and lower inspection levels. To complete their migration, existing Fast Track beneficiaries are required to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. For assistance, stakeholders can contact the dedicated helpdesk via [email protected].
The NCS will host a stakeholders’ 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 access comprehensive information on programme requirements and benefits.
The extension and forthcoming engagement forum underscore the NCS’s commitment to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, and promoting a predictable and secure cargo clearance ecosystem. By migrating to the AEO Programme, fast-track beneficiaries can ensure compliance with applicable regulations, enhance their supply chain’s effectiveness, and contribute to a collaborative environment that benefits all parties. The NCS urges all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.
