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Nestlé Nigeria Plc has been recognised by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) with the highest level of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) certification for excellence in supply chain security and compliance.
The company attained the Security and Safety status under the NCS AEO programme, a certification valid for five years, in recognition of its adherence to trade regulations, supply chain security standards and global best practices.
The certification followed a rigorous evaluation process involving detailed customs audits and on-site operational assessments.
This is according to a statement by Toju Egbebi, Corporate Affairs Manager, Nestlé Nigeria.
Out of 391 applications received across the country, only 35 companies were granted full certification, with fewer attaining the Security and Safety status.
Speaking at the formal presentation of certificates, the Comptroller-General of NCS, Alhaji Bashir Adeniyi, described the certification as proof that compliance was achievable.
“With the presentation of certificates today, it is a clear testament that compliance is indeed possible, even within an ecosystem often challenged by non-compliance,” he said.
Assistant Comptroller NU Awa, the AEO National Lead, said Nestlé Nigeria earned the Safety and Security certification due to the high standards observed during the validation process.
“Nestlé Nigeria was granted AEO Safety and Security certification in recognition of the very high safety and security standards observed during the validation process.
“This certification reflects the service’s trust in the company’s compliance framework and its commitment to strengthening supply chain security,” Awa said.
He noted that the certification was expected to enhance trade facilitation by strengthening collaboration between the Service and compliant companies.
Commenting on the development, the company’s Supply Chain Manager, Mr Kasum Diabate, said the recognition reflected Nestlé Nigeria’s disciplined approach to responsible operations.
“This certification is a clear recognition of the strength and integrity of our supply chain.
“At Nestlé Nigeria, we are deliberate about building systems that are secure, compliant and resilient from sourcing to delivery.
“Being awarded the highest AEO Security and Safety status by the Nigeria Customs Service reinforces the trust placed in our operations and our responsibility to support efficient and responsible trade in Nigeria,” he said.
For Nestlé Nigeria, the AEO Security and Safety status was expected to support faster customs clearance, reduce inspections at ports and warehouses, improve material availability and strengthen engagement with regulators and trade partners.
Nestlé Nigeria, which has operated in the country for over six decades, said it remains committed to compliance, transparency and collaboration as it continues to serve millions of consumers nationwide.
The company added that the certification underscored its commitment to supporting responsible trade, strengthening supply chain efficiency and sustaining business continuity in Nigeria. (NAN)
