The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced an extension of the deadline for all Fast Track Scheme beneficiaries to migrate to the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme. The new cut-off date is now 1 January 2026, shifting from the earlier deadline of 31 December 2025.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, the extension is aimed at supporting seamless transition, enhancing trade facilitation, strengthening supply chain security, and improving compliance in line with global standards.
The NCS urged all companies currently operating under the Fast Track Scheme to initiate and complete their AEO applications through the official portal: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. A dedicated helpdesk is also available for enquiries and technical support via aeo@customs.gov.ng. The Service reiterated that only companies fully certified under the AEO Programme will continue to enjoy facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.
The AEO Programme, a globally recognised initiative under the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, offers trusted operators several benefits including expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, fewer inspections, pre-arrival processing, and improved predictability in cross-border trade. The transition is also backed by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
As part of efforts to aid stakeholders, the NCS announced that it will hold another Stakeholders Engagement Forum on Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The forum will provide guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related issues. Participants will interact with AEO implementation teams to gain deeper insights into programme requirements and operational modalities.
The Service encouraged all Fast Track beneficiaries to take full advantage of the extension and actively participate in the engagement sessions to ensure a smooth transition.
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