Business-Friendly Customs Reforms Earn Commendation From Airline Operators

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has praised the significant reforms introduced by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, describing the transformation as a major improvement for the aviation industry and the broader business environment.

Speaking on behalf of AON, President Allen Onyema commended the CGC for his reforms and pro-business approach. He described the new customs leadership as one that has fostered collaboration rather than conflict between the Service and private sector operators.

Onyema likened past dealings with customs to “climbing a mountain blindly,” marked by frequent conflicts and frustrations. However, he commended the new customs leadership for fostering collaboration, listening to business concerns, and supporting the sector’s growth.

Onyema highlighted that these positive changes have not only enhanced business operations but have also contributed to job creation and increased government revenue.

The AON Board of Trustees recently made a first-ever courtesy visit to the CGC as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement to sustain the pro-business reforms. AON has pledged continued partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service to further develop Nigeria’s aviation sector and strengthen the economy

“In the past, dealing with Customs was like climbing a mountain blindly. We often fought with Customs and took our grievances to the media. Since assuming office, CGC Adeniyi has transformed the service into one that listens, engages, and supports businesses. This is why the AON Board decided to pay this first-ever courtesy call to say thank you and encourage you to continue in this positive direction,” he said.

He further applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing capable leaders like Adeniyi, stressing that the reforms have improved business operations, created jobs, and increased revenue generation for the country.

Welcoming the delegation, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, commended the strategic role played by AON in Nigeria’s economy, noting that their contributions go beyond financial investment.

“It is very pleasing to know that members of the Board of Trustees and indeed other members of AON are not just investors in the aviation sector, but they are also playing very strategic roles in the economy. We appreciate the expertise, knowledge, and cerebral contributions your members continue to bring into this sector,” Adeniyi said.

He explained that the discussions with AON went beyond the issue of the 4% Free on Board (FOB) levy, noting that both parties had reached mutually beneficial conclusions.

He highlighted several initiatives introduced by the Service to improve the ease of doing business, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, advanced ruling for importers, and the establishment of aviation desks at airports, seaports, and courier hubs.

The CGC further clarified that the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) is not a unilateral charge by Nigeria but a regional obligation within West Africa.