By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has stepped up efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) project, reaffirming its central role in driving Nigeria’s trade modernisation and digital transformation agenda.
The Comptroller-General of Customs disclosed this during a stakeholder engagement with airline and shipping line operators held in Abuja on March 4, 2026. He stressed that strong collaboration with key industry players is critical to the effective rollout of the initiative.
According to him, the continued support of stakeholders has significantly contributed to the milestones recorded in the Service’s modernisation journey.
The CGC revealed that the President has directed the Service to take decisive steps toward the successful launch of the National Single Window, an initiative designed to position Nigeria more competitively in global trade.
He described airline and shipping line operators as essential partners in ensuring a smooth transition to the new digital platform.
The Customs boss also assured stakeholders that adequate support mechanisms have been established to facilitate the migration process.
“A help desk with well-trained personnel will be available to address any operational challenges that may arise during the rollout,” he said.
Earlier, the Service had organised an awareness programme on Monday, March 3, 2026, aimed at mobilising stakeholders and partner agencies behind the initiative.
At the event, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT and Modernisation, DCG Oluyomi Adebakin, described the National Single Window as a significant milestone in the Service’s ongoing modernisation drive.
She explained that the NCS has spent months carrying out preparatory work to ensure that the framework reflects operational realities and supports smooth implementation.
“This is a national project, but Customs is at the centre of its execution,” Adebakin stated. “The success of the Single Window depends on collective understanding and cooperation. We must all appreciate its value because we cannot effectively promote what we do not fully understand.”
She further reassured officers and stakeholders that the initiative is intended to strengthen institutional capacity rather than replace human resources, noting that the deployment of technology will enhance efficiency, transparency, and speed in cargo clearance and trade documentation processes.
Also speaking at the programme, the Director of the NSW Project, Tola Fakolade, acknowledged the crucial leadership role being played by the Nigeria Customs Service in the implementation process.
“Our number one stakeholder is the NCS,” Fakolade said. “We have maintained a strong and constructive working relationship. Customs’ participation and institutional experience are critical to the success of this project.”
With the NCS leading coordination and stakeholder engagement, the National Single Window project is expected to transform Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, improve revenue generation, and strengthen the country’s standing in the global trading community.
