The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its sweeping reforms that have eased business operations and strengthened collaboration between the aviation sector and customs authorities.
A high-level delegation from the AON Board of Trustees, led by President Abdulmunaf Sarina, paid a courtesy visit to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, on Monday, September 22, 2025.
Welcoming the delegation in Abuja, Adeniyi praised AON’s contributions to Nigeria’s economy, describing airline operators as more than investors but also key strategic players in national development.
> “It is very pleasing to know that members of the Board of Trustees and indeed other members of AON are not just investors in the aviation sector, but they are also playing very strategic roles in the economy. We appreciate the expertise, knowledge, and cerebral contributions your members continue to bring into this sector,” the CGC said.
He explained that discussions with AON went beyond the contentious 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy, with both sides reaching mutually beneficial resolutions. Adeniyi highlighted new measures designed to improve the ease of doing business, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, advanced ruling for importers, and the creation of aviation desks at airports, seaports, and courier hubs.
On regional trade obligations, Adeniyi clarified that the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) was not a unilateral Nigerian policy but a regional commitment binding on member states.
Speaking on behalf of the AON, its Vice President, Allen Onyema, applauded the Customs leadership for fostering dialogue and building trust with private sector operators.
> “In the past, dealing with Customs was like climbing a mountain blindly. We often fought with Customs and took our grievances to the media. Since assuming office, CGC Adeniyi has transformed the Service into one that listens, engages, and supports businesses. This is why the AON Board decided to pay this first-ever courtesy call to say thank you and encourage you to continue in this positive direction,” Onyema said.
He also credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing capable leaders like Adeniyi, noting that the reforms have improved business operations, created jobs, and boosted government revenue.
The AON leadership pledged to sustain its partnership with the Customs Service in advancing Nigeria’s aviation industry and strengthening the broader economy.
Discover more from Inside Abuja Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
