Gbajabiamila: Nigeria set to launch “monumental” national single window on March 27

Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, says Nigeria will launch its highly anticipated National Single Window (NSW) platform on March 27, describing the initiative as a “monumental” step in transforming the country’s trade ecosystem.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday held at the State House in Abuja, attended by ministers, agency heads, and key officials, Gbajabiamila said the NSW, first introduced by President Bola Tinubu nearly two years ago, is a major fiscal reform designed to streamline trade procedures, boost efficiency, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

“We are about to launch yet another reform, fiscal reform by this administration, which in its nature will be very transformational. As the name suggests, it is a single national window as opposed to multiple single windows,” he said.

NSW Coordinator Tola Fakolade urged agencies to intensify support during the final 23 days before the launch, noting that the first phase will enable online processing of import permits, electronic submission of cargo manifests, and a centralised risk management system. Pilot testing and nationwide user training are ongoing to ensure a smooth rollout.

Officials at the meeting, including Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Finance Wale Edun and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole, pledged full support, describing the project as a critical growth-enabling initiative.

Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso and Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service Zacch Adedeji highlighted the need for strong coordination and political will, while Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi called the NSW a historic milestone requiring full collaboration with stakeholders.

Agencies involved include the Nigeria Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Ports Authority, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency.

The NSW platform is expected to simplify trade processes, reduce delays, and improve transparency, positioning Nigeria as a more competitive player in international trade.