First Class Refreshment Ltd, led by Alh Badamasi Burji, has emerged as one of the first six companies in Nigeria to receive the highly coveted and prestigious Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). This certification positions the company, known for its traditional Nigerian snacks and meat products, at the forefront of the nation’s export transformation agenda.
The certification, awarded during a ceremony at the Lagos Continental Hotel on February 14, 2025, is a major win for the indigenous company that has built its reputation on packaging and exporting Nigerian delicacies, particularly kilishi – a popular dried meat product – along with cookies and assorted meat products.
Speaking at the certification ceremony, Alhaji Burji said that the certification represents more than just recognition; it’s a proof of the brand’s consistent efforts toward maintaining the highest standards in food export operations. First Class Refreshment Ltd’s selection as one of the pioneer AEO-certified companies showcases the growing potential of Nigerian food products in the global market.
The impact of the AEO certification on First Class Refreshment’s operations is expected to be immediate and substantial. As part of the pilot programme, the company, along with five other certified businesses, will experience significantly reduced cargo clearance times – from several days to just 43 hours, representing a 66.9% improvement in operational efficiency.
The certification comes with tangible benefits for First Class Refreshment Ltd, including expedited customs clearance, reduced physical inspections, and priority treatment in customs processing. These advantages are expected to streamline the company’s export operations and reduce operational costs, with pilot companies already reporting collective savings exceeding N100 million within a quarter.
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the rigorous selection process that led to First Class Refreshment’s certification. “We began with 12 potential companies, but only six demonstrated the exceptional standards required for AEO certification. First Class Refreshment Ltd exemplifies the kind of business integrity and compliance we seek to promote in Nigeria’s export sector.”
The company’s success story aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030. As a certified AEO operator, First Class Refreshment Ltd is now better positioned to expand its international market presence, particularly in exporting traditional Nigerian snacks to global consumers.
This development represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its export base beyond oil and showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage on the global stage. With this certification, First Class Refreshment Ltd is set to play a monumental role in establishing Nigerian processed foods as a recognized brand in international markets.
First Class Refreshment’s sumptuous dried meat product, kilishi expertly prepared and presented by the company, has been widely lauded as a masterclass in culinary artistry. With each delicate, flavorful bite, the senses are transported on a delightful, rich and savouring experience with tastes that define this beloved product as a national treasure.
In their reviews, many of their local and international customers have testified of the kilishi as a paradigm of perfection, boasting an irresistible harmony of tender, juicy meat and a subtle yet alluring bouquet of spices. Each piece is carefully crafted to provide a truly regal epicurean experience, fit for the most discerning palates. Whether savoured on its own or paired with an assortment of complementary delights, this exquisite kilishi is an unequivocal triumph for the Nigerian food export sector.
Many have also praised First Class Refreshment Ltd. for showcasing the very best of Nigerian cuisine to the world earning it a revered place among the pantheon of global culinary giants.
First Class Refreshments Ltd was founded in 2017 to create value from local resources. Commissioned by Mr. Femi Adesina with support from media and business leaders, it focuses on producing quality Nigerian products, job creation, and investment opportunities.
