The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, says the Single Window Initiative aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the national economy to $1tn.
She urged stakeholders to embrace the vision aimed at streamlining trade processes, reducing bottlenecks, and increasing transparency, positioning Nigeria for unprecedented economic growth.
Kuku, in her keynote address at the National Single Window Stakeholders’ Forum held in Lagos recently, said the lack of cooperation among government agencies was impeding the progress of the initiative.
The FAAN MD also mentioned that the fragmentation among agencies and their reluctance to collaborate are some of the reasons the single window initiative has failed to work in the country.
She insisted that no agency or stakeholder could do it alone, stressing that success could only be achieved through teamwork.
The FAAN boss insisted that with Nigeria’s immense potential in manpower, resources, and capacity, the single-window initiative would be pivotal in helping the country capture a larger share of over $8 tn in annual global air cargo facilitation, which accounts for about 33 per cent of global trade volume, as stated by the International Air Transport Association.
Kuku mentioned the benefits of embracing single window initiative to include efficiency, transparency, cost savings, compliance and improved global relationship.
She added that real-time updates and tracking would foster trust and accountability among all participants in the trade ecosystem, while cost savings would reduce delays, prevent revenue leakages, and significantly lower storage fees and operational costs.
According to her, by adhering to international standards, the country would elevate its position in the global market and foster stronger relationships with its international trade partners.
These initiatives reaffirm the ministry’s and FAAN’s unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria into a global trade and aviation excellence hub. “They underscore the aviation ministry’s and FAAN’s dedication to evolving our airports into dynamic centres for exports and trade, aligning with the President’s ambitious goal of growing the economy to $1 tn. FAAN has made remarkable progress in trade facilitation through key initiatives, including:
“Adopting the Single Window Initiative should not be viewed merely as the introduction of a technological tool; it presents a unique opportunity for us to unite under a shared vision of efficiency, growth, and prosperity for our nation and ourselves.
“For those still uncertain, I encourage you to consider this: the successful implementation of this system will undoubtedly lead to increased trade volumes, resulting in greater revenue for all involved stakeholders. This success will be a collective triumph.
“Let us cultivate a mindset that prioritises progress over individual interests.”
