The Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has highlighted the crucial role of Nigeria’s National Single Window (NSW) project in improving trade efficiency and supporting economic stability. According to him, the initiative is set to transform how imports, exports, and transit procedures are managed across the country.
The National Single Window is a unified digital system that connects various government agencies involved in trade. It is designed to simplify processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency for all operators in the import and export sectors.
Launched in April 2024, the NSW platform allows businesses to submit all necessary trade documents in one place. This includes permits, licenses, Form M, Bills of Lading or Airway Bills, Packing Lists, and product-specific certifications such as SONCAP for SON-regulated products or NAFDAC approval for health-related items. By centralizing document submission, the platform eliminates the need to visit multiple agencies individually.
Key agencies leading the NSW implementation include the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Other stakeholders participating in the initiative include the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The main goal of the NSW is to streamline trade processes by consolidating all trade-related agencies onto a single digital platform. This approach is expected to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, lower costs, and accelerate cargo clearance times. By digitizing and harmonizing trade-related data, the system will create a more transparent and efficient business environment, improve compliance, and foster a competitive edge for Nigeria in global trade.
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Beyond operational efficiency, the NSW project aims to increase government revenue, prevent leakages, and support job creation. By transforming paper-based procedures into electronic processes, importers and exporters will benefit from a faster and more seamless trade experience.
Speaking after presiding over the 63rd quarterly meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service Board in Abuja, Edun confirmed that the platform is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2026. The system will incorporate digital automation to further streamline import and export procedures and boost overall trade efficiency.
Overall, the National Single Window represents a significant step toward modernizing Nigeria’s trade infrastructure, making it easier for businesses to operate, enhancing economic growth, and positioning the country as a more competitive player on the global stage.
