The Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service have stepped up collaboration on the National Single Window project, a landmark trade facilitation initiative expected to transform Nigeria’s import and export processes, improve revenue collection, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in global trade.
At a high-level meeting held at the NCS Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, top officials from both agencies reviewed ongoing preparations for the project’s implementation and agreed on practical steps to accelerate system integration ahead of its planned take-off in the first quarter of 2026.
The NSW, launched by President Ahmed Tinubu in April 2024, is a federal initiative designed to streamline and automate trade procedures by providing a centralized digital platform for all trade-related transactions. By integrating systems across government agencies, the platform will simplify documentation, enhance transparency, reduce clearance times, and cut costs for businesses.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, underscored the strategic importance of the project, saying, “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.”
FIRS Executive Chairman Dr Zacch Adedeji echoed the Customs chief’s sentiments, saying, “We want to synergise with your agency. It’s high time we get involved, because now, Mr President has given us till the first quarter of 2026. I am here to support the CG and 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.”
The NSW Director, Tola Fakolade, provided an update on progress, saying: “The Single Window serves as the central hub, linking all participating agencies, including Customs, into one unified platform. 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.”
When fully operational, the NSW is expected to deliver far-reaching benefits to government, businesses, and consumers, including faster cargo clearance times, reduced operational costs, and a sharp decline in bureaucratic bottlenecks. The project is anticipated to improve Nigeria’s standing in global trade rankings, making the country a more attractive destination for investment.
