The Maritime Journalists’ Association of Nigeria (MAJAN) hosted an important seminar at Rockview Hotel in ApapaNlagos on 10th April 2025, focused on transforming trade facilitation in Nigeria through the National Single Window (NSW) initiative. This initiative is seen as a game-changer that could lead to significant economic improvements in the maritime sector.
What is the National Single Window Initiative?
The National Single Window is a digital platform designed to streamline trade processes by allowing businesses to submit and process all trade-related documents in one location. By connecting government agencies, importers, and service providers, it aims to speed up and reduce the costs of importing and exporting goods in Nigeria.
Experts at the seminar unanimously agreed that the NSW initiative has the potential to revolutionize trade in Nigeria. It promises to improve transparency, fight corruption, and enhance operational efficiency, ultimately boosting the country’s economy.
The President General of Majan Comrade, Jarry Aguigbo, explained the seminar’s theme, emphasizing that it is perfectly suited for an environment like this, where various stakeholders are involved. He stated that if the National Single Window (NSW) is implemented effectively, it can facilitate seamless trade and enhance the national economy by breaking down trade barriers. He encouraged all the stakeholders to add where necessary for the success of the national single window for a better Nigeria for all.
Key Takeaways from the Seminar
Dr. Eugene Nweke, a former president of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), chaired the event and praised MAJAN for addressing such a critical topic.
He expressed concern that rather than embracing the NSW initiative, some people are politicizing it. Nweke believes that if properly implemented, the NSW will modernize Nigeria’s trade environment and improve operations at ports.
Mr. Tola Fakolade, the Project Lead for the NSW initiative, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a better trade environment in Nigeria. He shared that the goal of the project is to reduce the average time it takes to clear imports and exports from 10-18 days to just 24 hours. This quick turnaround will not only make trading easier but will also attract foreign investments and contribute to GDP growth.
Fakolade highlighted the importance of collaboration among various government agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, NAFDAC, and others, to ensure the project’s success.
Benefits of the National Single Window
During the discussion, Peter Ekunkoya, the Project Lead’s representative, explained that the NSW would result in many benefits, such as:
- Reduced Clearance Time: The time to clear goods from ports will drop from an average of 18 days to just 1 day.
- Lower Inspection Rates: The percentage of containers that need to be inspected will decrease significantly, from 90% to 25%.
- Cost Savings: Expenses related to clearing goods, fees, and demurrage could be reduced by at least 50%.
He emphasized that adopting a fully electronic payment system would also help streamline operations in the trade sector.
The Road Ahead
Despite facing some delays, Ekunkoya assured attendees that the NSW initiative is on track to be fully operational by March 2026. He urged all stakeholders to get involved and support the project to ensure its success.
Keynote speaker Idowu Omotosho highlighted that the National Single Window aligns with global trade facilitation standards and is crucial for enhancing transparency and accountability in trade. He presented a “five lesses” agenda aimed at maximizing the benefits of the NSW initiative:
- Cashless Operations: Implement full electronic payment systems.
- Timeless Operations: Achieve 24-hour cargo clearance.
- Taxless Operations: Simplify taxation with a single tax point and reduced tariffs.
- Paperless Operations: Move towards complete electronic processing with one clearance document.
- Regional Integration: Advocate for a single African currency to enhance trade across borders
The Nigeria Customs Service’s Controller for the Seme Area Command, Comptroller Benedict Oramalugo, who was represented by Assistant Controller A.G. Umar at the event, praised the federal government for its NSW initiative. He encouraged all stakeholders to back government efforts aimed at boosting trade and transforming the country’s economy.
Mr. Amos Sar, the Assistant Director of DSS Apapa, also expressed his support for the NSW initiative, emphasizing that Nigerians should recognize and celebrate any project that promotes trade and strengthens the national economy.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several distinguished individuals and appreciation.
The NSW initiative has garnered support from various quarters, including government officials and industry stakeholders. NAGAFF’s National President, Tochukwu Ezisi, expressed optimism about the project, stating that, if implemented correctly, it could be a major turning point for Nigeria’s economy.
With strong collaboration and focused efforts, the National Single Window could pave the way for a more efficient and transparent trade environment, ultimately enhancing Nigeria’s position in global commerce. As Nigeria embarks on this groundbreaking journey, everyone involved in the trade sector needs to work together to realize this vision for national prosperity.
