About the Programme
The NCS AEO programme recognises businesses with a strong compliance record and secure supply-chain controls, aligned to WCO global standards.
Official NCS BlogWho May Apply
The AEO Programme is open to all operators involved in Nigeria's international supply chain
The AEO Programme covers economic operators across the international trade supply chain and is being rolled out in phases. Any business actively participating in cross-border trade can apply for AEO status.
Importers
Exporters
Customs Brokers
Freight Forwarders
Transport Providers
Logistics Operators
AEO Programme Overview Video
Programme Overview
Key information about the Authorised Economic Operator Programme
Who Is an AEO
An Authorised Economic Operator is an accredited supply-chain participant recognised under WCO global customs standards and national best practice.
Read full definitionEligibility Snapshot
- CAC registration: 3 years (AEO-C) or 5 years (AEO-S)
- Valid TIN and current tax clearance certificate
- Audited financial statements on file
- Relevant sector licences and certifications
Application Process
Download the SAQ, complete a readiness self-assessment, submit your Notification of Intent, complete the online SAQ form, pass onsite validation, then proceed to committee approval and final certification.
Review the official processTypes of AEO
- AEO Simplified: Compliance, record keeping, solvency, operational competence.
- AEO Security: All of AEO-C plus deeper security and safety standards.
Programme Resource Links
Official AEO programme information, reference materials, and reporting channels
Application Journey
Four key stages from preparation to AEO status
1
Prepare
Download the SAQ, complete a readiness self-assessment, and confirm your business meets the baseline requirements for your chosen AEO track.
2
Apply
Submit the online Notification of Intent. NCS performs a preliminary risk assessment and trader profiling before admitting the application.
3
Validate
Complete the online SAQ, upload supporting documents, and coordinate with NCS officials for the onsite physical validation exercise.
4
Approve
Successful validation proceeds to the AEO Steering Committee for final approval and issuance of AEO certification.
Certification Types
Two certification tracks under the NCS AEO Programme
AEO Simplified (AEO-C)
Customs simplification and expedited processing
For operators with strong customs compliance, record keeping, financial solvency, and operational competence. Requires 3-year CAC registration history.
- NICIS blue lane treatment
- Expedited PAAR registration
- Dedicated customs support and exit lanes
- Renewal cycle every 3 years
AEO Security (AEO-S)
Security-led trusted trader recognition
For operators meeting AEO-C requirements plus enhanced security and safety standards across their business and supply-chain partners. Requires 5-year CAC history.
- NICIS green lane treatment
- Priority processing during elevated threat periods
- Dedicated lanes, spaces, and priority handling
- Renewal cycle every 5 years
Documents at a Glance
Key document groups to prepare before starting the NOI process
General Corporate Records
- Business registration and incorporation records
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- TIN and tax clearance certificates
- Audited financial statements
Operational & Compliance Files
- Trade licences, permits, and regulatory approvals
- Operational procedures and risk management processes
- Insurance, legal agreements, and partner references
- Security policy and record management controls
Sector-Specific Additions
- Import or export standards and product certification
- Logistics licences, tracking evidence, and waybill samples
- ISO, GDP, food safety, or security standards where applicable
- NEIP, labour, health, and CSR compliance evidence
Selection Criteria
Standard assessment themes used to evaluate AEO applications
The following criteria are assessed when determining whether a business is ready for AEO participation. AEO-S applicants are additionally assessed on cargo, premises, conveyance, and personnel security standards.
Customs compliance
Commercial record management
Financial viability
Consultation & communication
Risk education & training
Secure information exchange
Trading partner security
Crisis recovery planning
Monitoring & evaluation
Cargo & premises security (AEO-S)
Conveyance & personnel security (AEO-S)
Official Downloads
Core NCS AEO programme documents and presentation materials
Self Assessment Questionnaire
The official SAQ used to assess readiness before or during the application process. Complete this before submitting your NOI.
AEO Handbook & Applicant Guide
The programme handbook and the step-by-step applicant guide. Essential reference material throughout the application process.
PCA Presentation & M&E Report
Compliance awareness and engagement materials, including the PCA presentation and the weekly monitoring and evaluation report.
Contact & Application Entry
Contact the AEO Unit or submit your Notification of Intent to begin the certification process
Nigeria Customs Service — AEO Unit
Office Address
NCS Headquarters, No 2, Lake Taal Close, off Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi St, Maitama, Abuja.
Telephone
+2347017001707 • +2348035939648 • +2347069428559 • +2347067511133
Confidential Reporting
Use the anonymous tip-off channel to report suspected customs irregularities without revealing your identity.
Submit Your Notification of Intent
Open the dedicated NOI application page to submit your company details, pass FIRS TIN verification, and begin the first step of the AEO certification process.
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