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Tola Fakolade, Director of the Nigeria National Single Window, says the initiative will streamline trade procedures, simplify import and export documentation, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global and regional trade.
Fakolade made this known during a sensitisation programme organised for officers of the Nigeria Customs Service in Lagos ahead of the platform’s Phase One launch scheduled for March 27, 2026.
He explained that the National Single Window is designed to facilitate trade and improve coordination among government agencies involved in import and export operations. According to him, the platform will enable traders to submit documentation and complete regulatory processes through a unified digital interface.
Once operational, the system will integrate multiple government agencies onto a single platform, reducing administrative bottlenecks and improving efficiency in trade-related procedures.
Addressing concerns raised by stakeholders, Fakolade clarified that the initiative will not interfere with the statutory revenue collection responsibilities of agencies operating within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
“The National Single Window is not taking over revenue collection from agencies. What it will do is facilitate ease of trade by integrating processes and improving transparency across all participating agencies,” he said.
He further emphasised that the project is not intended to function as a tax collection mechanism for the Nigeria Revenue Service but is instead a presidential initiative aimed at modernising the country’s trade infrastructure.
According to Fakolade, the project is overseen by a steering committee made up of representatives from relevant government institutions and coordinated at the level of the presidency.
“The National Single Window is a presidential initiative with a steering committee comprising all relevant government agencies, each duly represented and led by the Presidency. Although the project is funded by the Nigeria Revenue Service, its objective is not to compete with any agency but to strengthen collaboration and efficiency,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Oluyomi Adebakin, Deputy Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, highlighted the strategic significance of the platform for Nigeria’s global trade positioning.
She noted that the National Single Window would improve operational efficiency within Customs and strengthen Nigeria’s reputation in international trade by digitising and harmonising trade procedures.
“The National Single Window will improve Nigeria’s image in the committee of nations as it relates to trade. It will simplify procedures, reduce delays, and strengthen transparency within the system,” Adebakin said.
Participants at the sensitisation workshop were also taken through presentations outlining the operational framework, benefits, and collaborative structure of the platform.
The session provided an opportunity for officers to seek clarification on how the new system will integrate with existing platforms used by various government agencies involved in trade operations.
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