Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to launching the National Single Window project, a digital trade facilitation system designed to streamline customs operations and strengthen economic stability. Edun described the initiative as a game-changer that will reduce bureaucracy, lower costs, and speed up cargo clearance, ultimately enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.
Speaking after the 63rd quarterly meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Board, Edun stressed that the project, expected to roll out in the first quarter of 2026, represents one of President Bola Tinubu’s legacy reforms. “The National Single Window will revolutionise trade by integrating digital automation into import and export processes. This efficiency will not only benefit businesses but also provide a significant boost to the economy,” he said.
The Customs Service has already deployed World Customs Organisation–accredited officers to draft business process requirements and assist in vendor selection. The system will be implemented with support from the Trade Modernisation Project Limited, which is providing technical expertise to ensure smooth deployment. Edun explained that the reform will complement existing fiscal measures, which are already helping to stabilise inflation, strengthen the naira, and improve Nigeria’s trade balance and reserves.
Highlighting recent progress, Edun disclosed that the NCS generated ₦3.6 trillion in revenue between January and June 2025, surpassing projections by nearly 12 percent and marking a 25 percent increase from the same period last year. He attributed this performance to ongoing reforms and the adoption of technology, which have boosted efficiency and accountability across the service.
The minister emphasised that the impact of these reforms extends beyond the Federal Government, noting that customs revenue directly supports state and local government budgets through the Federation Account. With the National Single Window fully in place by 2026, Edun projected even greater efficiency, stronger revenue growth, and a more stable economy capable of meeting the nation’s pressing development needs.
Source: Punch
