The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have strengthened joint efforts to meet the
Federal Government’s target of launching the Nigerian National Single Window
(NSW) platform by the first quarter of 2026.
At a high-level meeting on Tuesday, both agencies
reviewed their ongoing collaboration with the NSW Secretariat and agreed on
concrete integration and implementation steps.
The NSW, launched by President Bola Tinubu in April
2024, is designed to simplify trade procedures, enhance transparency, and boost
Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global market. The President has tasked the
NSW Steering Committee with ensuring the platform becomes fully operational
within the set timeframe.
Push for Timely Delivery
FIRS Executive Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, emphasised that strong synergy
between FIRS and NCS is essential to achieving the goal.
“Mr President has given us till the first quarter of
2026, and I am here to support the Customs Service to achieve the launch of the
National Single Window,” Adedeji stated, noting that the first phase is
targeted for March 2026.
He added that integrating the revenue-collection
systems of both agencies would not only streamline processes but also
significantly enhance non-oil revenue generation.
NCS Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi, echoed the
urgency, describing the NSW as a priority policy for the current
administration. He said the initiative aims to create a modern trade ecosystem
by integrating advanced technology into clearance and compliance processes,
reducing bottlenecks, and improving the movement of goods.
Moving into Critical Development and
Integration
NSW Director, Tola Fakolade, confirmed that the project has transitioned from
the assessment stage to the critical development and integration phase.
“Seamless integration at this stage is essential for
meeting the Q1 2026 operational target. We are here to ensure the necessary
support is in place to stay on track,” Fakolade said.
Once fully operational, the NSW is expected to cut
cargo clearance times, reduce operational costs, and eliminate bureaucratic
delays—allowing Nigerian businesses to trade more efficiently both locally and
internationally. Government revenue is projected to increase through reduced
leakages and better compliance, while consumers could benefit from lower prices
and faster access to goods.
About the National Single Window
The National Single Window is a flagship digital trade facilitation project of
the Federal Government aimed at harmonising all trade-related agencies on a
single portal. It will allow importers and exporters to process documentation
and clear goods with greater efficiency, reduce human interference, and
eliminate overlapping bureaucratic procedures.
The steering committee comprises representatives from
the Ministries of Finance and Trade, FIRS, and NCS. By improving port
efficiency and transparency, the initiative is expected to attract foreign
investment, create jobs, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification
agenda.
Comments:
Leave a Reply