Nigeria Customs, FIRS, and NSW Secretariat Strengthen Collaboration on Trade Facilitation Project*

By Lod Onyeji

In a pivotal step towards advancing the Federal Government's trade reform agenda, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has deepened its collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Single Window (NSW) Secretariat. A high-level meeting was held at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja on August 12, 2025, where the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, hosted the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, and the Director of the NSW Project, Mr. Tola Fakolade.

*National Single Window Project*

The meeting reviewed progress on the Nigerian National Single Window Project, a unified digital platform connecting all trade-related government agencies. The project aims to drastically cut bureaucratic bottlenecks, reduce cargo clearance time, lower operators' costs, and position Nigeria as a more competitive player in global trade. The platform is expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2026.

*Transformational Initiative*

CGC Adeniyi emphasized that the National Single Window is a "transformational initiative that will reshape Nigeria's trade landscape." He noted that its success depends on seamless inter-agency collaboration, adding that the project is "not just about technology; it is about building a modern trade ecosystem where government agencies work as one to serve the trading community with efficiency, transparency, and speed."

*Commitment to Collaboration*

The meeting concluded with a shared pledge by the NCS, FIRS, and NSW Secretariat to intensify technical integration, maintain open engagement channels, and keep stakeholders informed. Dr. Adedeji reaffirmed FIRS' commitment to the project, saying the revenue agency would "collaborate fully to ensure the system delivers on its promise of improved compliance, revenue growth, and ease of doing business."

*Expected Benefits*

The National Single Window platform is expected to enhance revenue generation, create jobs, strengthen compliance, and provide tangible benefits for businesses, government, and consumers alike. With the collaboration of key agencies, Nigeria is poised to become a more competitive player in global trade.