Abuja: The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) on Tuesday convened a high-level meeting with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to advance the Nigerian National Single Window (NSW) project. The meeting focused on reviewing the collaboration between NCS and the NSW Secretariat, agreeing on steps for integration and implementation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the discussions underscored a shared commitment to national economic growth and the modernisation of trade processes. Stakeholders reaffirmed the importance of inter-agency cooperation in achieving NSW’s objectives. NSW is a Federal Government initiative aimed at simplifying trade procedures, enhancing transparency, and delivering substantial economic benefits to Nigeria.
The project was initiated by President Bola Tinubu in April 2024, with the presidency setting an operational take-off target for the first quarter of 2026. Agencies are tasked with completing system integration and readiness within this period. Dr Zacch Adedeji, Executive-Chairman of FIRS, highlighted that synergy with the NCS is crucial for actualising the project within the given timeframe.
Dr Adedeji stated, “We are at the stage where we all need what is required for what is to be done and the help that is required to get the job done right. We want to synergise with the NCS. It is high time we get involved, because now, Mr President has given us till the first quarter of 2026. I am here to support the Nigerian Customs Service to achieve the launching of the National Single Window and to seek further collaboration ahead of the launching of the first phase in March 2026.”
Mr Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of NCS, emphasised the importance of aligning stakeholders for NSW implementation. He remarked, “We are here to exchange ideas and have open discussions that will help our preparations for the National Single Window. This project is important to Mr President. Since the beginning of this administration, it has been listed among the key policies to create an environment that facilitates trade and makes the Nigerian economy more competitive. The goal is to develop a trade ecosystem, which involves integrating technology into our processes.”
Mr Tola Fakolade, Director of NSW, mentioned that the project has entered the critical development and integration phase after a year of assessments and requirement analyses. Fakolade explained that the single window serves as the central hub, linking all participating agencies into one unified platform.
Fakolade added, “Achieving seamless integration at this stage is essential for meeting the Q1 2026 operational target, and we are here to ensure the necessary support is in place to stay on track.” He also outlined the wide-ranging benefits of the NSW for Nigerians, highlighting quicker cargo clearances, lower operational costs, and fewer bureaucratic bottlenecks for businesses. Government revenue is expected to increase through reduced leakages and improved compliance, and consumers will benefit from lower prices and faster access to goods.
Fakolade concluded by noting that the system will enhance Nigeria’s reputation in global trade, attracting more investment and creating jobs across multiple sectors.