Customs reward compliant importers, exporters, SMEs

The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced the implementation of the Authorised Economic Operators benefits programme for the first set of approved importers, exporters, small and medium enterprises, customs-licensed brokers, and logistics operators.

It stated that as part of the programme, consignments belonging to the selected operators would receive preferential treatment, including automatic pre-arrival assessment report registration, direct green lane routing, dedicated relationship manager, and AEO branding.

The National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that upon the completion of the pilot phase and verification of ongoing compliance with all established provisions, participants would be awarded certificates to formally recognise their status as Authorised Economic Operators.

The service stated that the initiative which took effect on September 2, 2024, introduces new standards in line with global best practices, aiming to enhance trade facilitation, ameliorate existing difficulties within the supply chain, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global trading community.

This was contained in a statement on Wednesday issued by the service.

Maiwada said these benefits would be administered continuously, contingent on the compliance of all selected participants with the programme’s provisions.

He said the inaugural participants were carefully chosen based on their outstanding compliance within the supply chain, following an exhaustive three-month AEO validation process designed to uphold the highest selection standards.

“Additionally, the programme is being implemented under the guidance of the World Customs Organisation which has played a pivotal role by providing experts for capacity development, training, and supplying essential materials,” Maiwada said.

According to him, key partners such as the World Bank‘s Accelerating Revenue Mobilisation Reforms and various customs administrations across the globe, “with emphasis on His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, South African Revenue Service and Uganda Revenue Authority where benchmarking exercises were conducted, have significantly contributed to the success of this AEO initiative.”

He said the pilot phase would be operational across all ports, where valuable insights and learnings would be gathered to enhance service delivery.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised the need for robust support from all stakeholders, including other government agencies and development partners to promote the success of the pilot test.

“Collaboration is not just vital, it is essential for unlocking the full potential of the AEO programme, which promises to significantly streamline trade processes and elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global trade arena,” Adeniyi said.

The CGC added that the service remains unwavering in its commitment to promoting transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business.

“The service readily anticipates the full-scale implementation of the program, further solidifying its dedication to fostering a seamless and secure trading environment for all Nigerians.

“The successful implementation of this pilot phase represents a key milestone in the service’s pursuit of aligning with best practices towards efficient service delivery,” he stated.