Airline Operators Praise Nigeria Customs for Groundbreaking Reforms, Pledge Ongoing Partnership

In a historic visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) headquarters in Abuja, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), led by President Abdulmunaf Sarina, lauded the Customs Service for its transformative and business-friendly reforms. This rare courtesy call marked a turning point in the relationship between the aviation sector and the Customs Service, with both parties pledging to continue working together to fuel Nigeria’s economic growth.

During the visit, Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi warmly welcomed the AON delegation, acknowledging the critical role airline operators play in Nigeria’s economy. Adeniyi highlighted that their contributions extend far beyond financial investments, underscoring the strategic expertise and intellectual capital the AON brings to the sector.

“It’s truly encouraging to see that AON members are not just investors but key stakeholders shaping Nigeria’s economic future. We recognize the expertise you offer, and we deeply value the partnerships we are building together,” Adeniyi stated.

The discussions between AON and NCS went beyond the contentious 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy, and both sides agreed on several mutually beneficial steps. Adeniyi revealed a series of innovative initiatives the NCS has launched to enhance the ease of doing business, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, advanced import rulings, and the creation of dedicated aviation desks at airports, seaports, and courier hubs.

On a regional front, Adeniyi clarified that the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) is not a Nigerian initiative but a collective regional obligation designed to boost trade across West Africa. AON President Allen Onyema, speaking on behalf of the airline operators, was full of praise for the new Customs leadership. He credited Adeniyi with transforming the relationship between Customs and the private sector, shifting from a combative past to one of collaboration.

“In the past, working with Customs felt like blindly scaling a mountain,” Onyema admitted. “We often clashed and aired our grievances publicly. But under CGC Adeniyi, the Service has become one that listens, engages, and supports business. This is why we decided to make this historic visit—to thank you for your leadership and to encourage you to keep up the excellent work.”

Onyema also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing capable leaders like Adeniyi, whose reforms have not only streamlined business operations but also created jobs and boosted national revenue.

As the meeting concluded, the AON leadership reaffirmed their commitment to a continued partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service, with both parties eager to drive forward Nigeria’s aviation sector and broader economic growth.

This landmark visit marks a new era of collaboration between Nigeria’s aviation industry and the Customs Service—one that promises to accelerate Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

Written by Gold Oyeniran