Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Maikaba, has affirmed the Command’s full commitment to the Nigeria Customs Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) initiative, emphasizing its alignment with international best practices.
This commitment was made in Lagos on Friday when the Command hosted a high-level delegation from the Nigeria Customs Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) team at its headquarters in Apapa
An official statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, of the Command, ASP Isaac Hundeyin which was made available to our correspondent noted that the visiting team, operating under the office of the Deputy Comptroller General, Tariff and Trade, was led by Comptroller N. Isyaku, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller P.K. Katio.
During the visit, Assistant Comptroller Katio provided insights into the AEO programme, an initiative launched in 2005 by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to streamline cargo clearance and expedite global trade. He noted that the AEO framework aims to minimize human contact in the clearance process and facilitate business operations for key players such as importers, exporters, SMEs, port operators, unions, and transporters. Katio emphasized that strict adherence to Customs regulations and other government mandates are prerequisites for obtaining an AEO certificate.
The Customs delegation commended CP Maikaba for his strides in ensuring security at the nation’s ports since assuming office as the 32nd Commissioner of Police in charge of the Command. They highlighted the significant role the Police play in Nigeria’s security apparatus—covering seaports, airports, and land borders—and underscored how this broad presence enhances the identification of potential risks within the supply chain. Comptroller Isyaku, through his representative, also disclosed that strategic discussions regarding the formal launch of the AEO program in Nigeria are already underway. He sought the Command’s collaboration in sharing credible intelligence on any certified AEO operators who fail to comply with the scheme’s regulations.
In response, CP Maikaba pledged the Command’s unwavering support for the AEO initiative, citing the alignment of the program with international best practices. He assured the Customs team that the Ports Authority Police (Western) Command would offer full cooperation throughout the AEO’s implementation process, underscoring that such inter-agency synergy is vital to boosting trade facilitation and securing sustainable economic growth for the country.
The visit concluded on a positive note, with both agencies affirming their commitment to maintain a robust partnership aimed at strengthening security and promoting efficient trade operations across Nigeria’s maritime sector.
