Nigeria’s Port Reforms Set to Boost Global Trade Competitiveness — Customs Service

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has urged all stakeholders in the nation’s trade sector to ensure the smooth implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) initiative, describing it as a game-changer for Nigeria’s position in global trade.

The call was made on Friday by the Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, at the National Single Window Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum held in Lagos.

ACG Babandede said the success of the NSW project is not solely the responsibility of government agencies but requires collective effort, adaptability, and openness to new ways of working from all participants.

“The success of this project does not rest on the shoulders of the government alone. It requires all of us in this room to play our part, embrace change, and exercise patience as we navigate challenges,” he stated.

He noted that boosting efficiency at Nigeria’s ports would enhance competitiveness and enable manufacturers and traders to better predict outcomes in their operations.

Tola Fakolade, Director of the National Single Window Project and Head of Secretariat, said the forum was timely as the first phase of the project nears launch. “It is important that all stakeholders fully understand the scope and implications of the NSW and how it will impact their businesses,” he said.

Kingsley Igwe, Registrar and CEO of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), highlighted the role of NSW in positioning Nigeria to take full advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He explained that the platform would help reduce costs, streamline trade processes, and integrate free trade agreements into the B’Odogwu platform to ensure efficient classification and duty payment.

The forum featured panel discussions on global benchmarking, stakeholder coordination, and cooperation, as well as an interactive Q&A session for participants to engage directly with project leaders.

The National Single Window platform allows importers and exporters to submit all trade documents through a single digital portal, linking all relevant government agencies and cutting bottlenecks in the clearance process.

The first phase of the NSW is scheduled for launch in March 2026, with the second and third phases expected to be completed by the end of 2026.