Customs, FIRS, Strengthen Partnership with NSW to Fast-Track Trade Facilitation Platform

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has stepped up its drive to advance the Federal Government’s trade reform agenda by deepening collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Single Window (NSW) Secretariat on the Nigerian National Single Window Project — a landmark digital trade facilitation initiative set to go live in the first quarter of 2026.

On Tuesday, 12 August 2025, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR), welcomed the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, and the Director of the NSW Project, Mr. Tola Fakolade, to the NCS Headquarters in Abuja for a high-level review of the project’s progress. Discussions centred on the final technical and administrative steps required to ensure a seamless operational take-off.

CGC Adeniyi described the National Single Window as a “transformational initiative that will reshape Nigeria’s trade landscape”, emphasising that its success hinges on effective inter-agency synergy.

“This project is not just about technology; it is about building a modern trade ecosystem where government agencies work as one to serve the trading community with efficiency, transparency, and speed,” he stated.

The Nigerian National Single Window, inaugurated in April 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will serve as a unified digital platform integrating all trade-related government agencies.

Designed to cut red tape, it is expected to significantly reduce cargo clearance times, lower operational costs for businesses, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Dr. Adedeji reaffirmed FIRS’ full support, highlighting the project’s potential to strengthen compliance, boost revenue, and improve the ease of doing business.

“We are committed to collaborating fully to ensure this system delivers on its promise,” he said.

Mr. Fakolade urged all participating agencies to adhere strictly to their integration schedules to maintain momentum towards the Q1 2026 launch date.

The meeting concluded with a joint commitment from the NCS, FIRS, and NSW Secretariat to intensify technical integration efforts, maintain open communication channels, and keep stakeholders updated.

Once operational, the platform is projected to not only enhance revenue generation but also create jobs, foster compliance, and deliver tangible benefits for government, business operators, and consumers alike.