By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has expressed optimism that the recently launched Pilot Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme in Nigeria will contribute to the broader objectives of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in promoting border security and fostering sustainable economic development globally.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the 6th WCO Global Authorised Economic Operators Conference in Shenzhen, China, CGC Adeniyi said, “We started implementing a pilot AEO program a month ago, and we have been inspired by the policy and vision of the new Nigerian government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enhance economic competitiveness and diversification.”
The CGC noted the importance of AEO in reducing the time and cost of doing business. He was quoted as saying, “The indices that they used in compiling the ease of doing business is trading across borders, and AEO allows us to engage with our stakeholders and reduce the time and cost of doing business.”
CGC Adeniyi also acknowledged the challenges faced by the Service in optimizing stakeholders’ engagement and sought support from the WCO and other stakeholders to address these challenges.
The conference, which held from May 8 to 10, 2024, brought together Customs officials, trade experts, and stakeholders from around the world to share best practices and explore ways to enhance trade facilitation and security through the AEO program.