The Nigeria Customs Service has announced an extension of the deadline for the migration of all beneficiaries under the Fast Track Scheme to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO).
The consention, which was earlier billed to terminate on 31 December 2025, will now extend till 31 January 2026.
According to a statement by the national spokesman of the Service, Dr. Abdullahi Maiwada, the extension was in furtherance of its ‘commitment to deepening trade facilitation, securing supply chain and strengthening compliance in line with global standards’.
The service therefore advised all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who are yet to complete their ‘migration’ to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform.
‘The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet program requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations’, the spokesman said.
‘Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme’.
Maiwada explained further that the AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.
According to him, ‘the extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders. This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
‘To further support stakeholders and sustain ongoing sensitisation efforts, the Service will convene another comprehensive Stakeholders Engagement Forum to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns’.
He urged all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period, participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.
‘This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance with applicable regulations but also enhances the supply chain’s effectiveness and sustainability, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties.
‘The Service remains committed to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, protecting national revenue, and promoting a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate business’, Maiwada, an Assistant Controller of Customs (ACC) stated.
