The Nigeria Customs Service has unveiled a roadmap towards simplifying and fast-tracking trade in Nigeria in line with the World Customs Organisation protocol.

The project, called ‘Authorised Economic Operators’ (AEO), has the protection of the new Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and designed to systematically identify tolerable risks affecting the importation of legitimate goods into Nigeria.

During a presentation on the modalities for implementation of the project at Customs Headquarters Abuja, the acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, re-echoed his commitment to tackling challenges bedeviling trade facilitation in Nigeria.

The CG, however, said that compliant traders and businesses of significant benefits should embrace the innovation, assuring that it will be a game-changer in the realm of trade facilitation.

It is also believed that AEO Project will contribute to ease of doing business across various sectors and attract investors into the country.

The process, which is expected to improve security and efficiency in fast-tracking movement of goods will reduce turnaround time for importers and double up the chances of generating revenue, which according to the acting CGC will strengthen the mutual recognition between the service and stakeholders.

Some of the benefits that AEO brings are reducing examination and priority examination, amongst others.