Stakeholders back Single Window to boost trade efficiency

Stakeholders have expressed strong support for the Federal Government’s National Single Window (NSW) initiative, describing it as a major step toward transforming Nigeria’s trade and port operations.

Launched in April 2024 by President Bola Tinubu, the NSW is a digital platform designed to streamline import, export, and transit processes by linking all trade-related agencies—such as Customs, NAFDAC, and SON—under one interface. It is expected to become fully operational by March 2026.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the project would help eliminate revenue leakages estimated at over $3bn annually, enhance transparency, and reduce supply chain disruptions affecting over 70% of logistics firms.

He added that the platform would also cut down excessive costs and delays caused by duplicative paperwork and inefficiencies at the ports, which currently make doing business in Nigeria up to 40% more expensive than in neighbouring countries.

Stakeholders predict that with full implementation, logistics costs could drop by at least 25%, while cargo clearance and vessel turnaround times will be significantly reduced.

They believe the NSW will help Nigeria recover lost revenue, strengthen its regional trade position, and support its goal of becoming a $1tn economy through improved ease of doing business and export diversification.