The Comptroller -General (C-G) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has approved the first set of beneficiaries for its Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme.

The service ‘s spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

NCS inaugurated the pilot programme of AEO on April 15, aimed at enhancing efficiency and predictability of trade in the country.

The programme, implemented under the guidance of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), is used by customs administrations to encourage Economic Operators(EOs) achieve a high level of compliance with extant rules.

It is a trade facilitation concept driven globally by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) .

Mr Adeniyi said that the move, effective from Sept. 2, was part of the implementation of the AEO programme aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business for compliant stakeholders.

He listed the first set of approved stakeholders to include importers, exporters, small medium enterprises, customs licensed brokers and logistics operators.

“This landmark initiative 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.

“These benefits will be administered continuously, contingent on the compliance of all selected participants with the programme’s provisions,” he said.

According to C-G, the inaugural participants were chosen based on their outstanding compliance within the supply chain, following an exhaustive three-month AEO validation process.

He said that the process was designed to uphold the highest selection standards.

He added that the consignments of the pioneer beneficiaries would receive preferential treatment.

“As part of the programme, consignments belonging to the selected AEO will receive preferential treatment, including Automatic Pre-Arrival Assessment Report( PAAR)Registration, Direct Green Lane Routing, Dedicated Relationship Manager, and AEO Branding.

“Upon the successful completion of the pilot phase and verification of ongoing compliance with all established provisions, participants will be awarded certificates formally recognising their status as AEOs.

“Furthermore, this pilot phase will be operational across all ports, where valuable insights and learnings will be gathered to enhance service delivery,” he said.

He stated that the WCO has played a pivotal role in the implementation of the programme by providing experts for capacity development, training personnel, and supplying essential materials.

Mr Adeniyi emphasised the need for robust support from all stakeholders, including other government agencies and development partners, to ensure the success of the pilot programme.

“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,” he said.

The C-G reiterated that the NCS remains unwavering in its commitment to promoting transparency, efficiency, and the ease of doing business.

He stated that the service was prepared to fully implement the AEO programme, thereby reinforcing its commitment to establishing a seamless and secure trading environment for all Nigerians.

According to him, the successful implementation of the pilot phase will represent a key milestone in the service’s pursuit of aligning with best practices for efficient service delivery.

(NAN)