Nigeria Takes Giant Leap Towards Trade Facilitation with National Single Window Project

By Justin Huholds

In a notable development, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Single Window (NSW) Secretariat to advance the Federal Government's trade reform agenda. 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 key stakeholders to review progress on the Nigerian National Single Window Project.

*A Unified Digital Platform for Trade*

The Nigerian National Single Window Project, launched in April 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at connecting all trade-related government agencies on a single digital platform. This innovative project promises to revolutionize Nigeria's trade landscape by cutting bureaucratic bottlenecks, reducing cargo clearance time, and lowering operators' costs.

*A New Era of Efficiency and Transparency*

CGC Adeniyi emphasized the transformative potential of the National Single Window, noting that its success hinges on seamless inter-agency collaboration. "This 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," he said.

*Commitment to Collaboration*

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by the NCS, FIRS, and NSW Secretariat to drive the project's success. Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of FIRS, reaffirmed his agency's dedication to the project, while Mr. Tola Fakolade, Director of the NSW Project, urged participating agencies to meet their integration timelines to ensure a successful launch in Q1 2026.

*A Brighter Future for Nigerian Trade*

When fully operational, the National Single Window platform is expected to have a profound impact on Nigeria's economy, enhancing revenue generation, creating jobs, and strengthening compliance. As Nigeria positions itself as a more competitive player in global trade, this project is poised to bring tangible benefits to businesses, government, and consumers alike.