Nigeria’s National Single Window Set to Launch in March 2026, FIRS and Customs Fast-Track Integration
Nigeria’s National Single Window (NSW) is set to become fully operational in March 2026, following a strategic collaboration between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), and other key stakeholders. The decision was reinforced during a high-level strategy session held at the Nigerian Customs Headquarters in Abuja, aimed at streamlining preparations and fast-tracking the integration of systems ahead of the landmark trade facilitation initiative.
The meeting brought together top officials, including FIRS Executive Chairman Dr. Zach Adedeji, NCS Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and NSW Project Director Tola Fakolade, to review ongoing preparations and agree on practical steps for seamless implementation. The NSW, launched by President Bola Tinubu in April 2024, is designed to centralize and automate all trade-related transactions, making Nigeria’s import and export processes more efficient, transparent, and cost-effective.
Officials emphasized that the platform will simplify documentation, reduce clearance times, and cut operational costs for businesses. Adeniyi highlighted that the project aligns with the administration’s goal of creating a modern trade ecosystem, integrating advanced technology into clearance and compliance processes, and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade. Adedeji noted that close collaboration between FIRS and Customs is critical to meeting the tight operational deadlines set by the presidency.
According to Fakolade, the NSW has progressed into the critical development and integration phase after a year of requirements analysis. When fully operational, the system will link all participating agencies into a unified platform, facilitating faster cargo clearance, minimizing bureaucratic bottlenecks, and improving compliance with tax and Customs regulations. The project is also expected to increase non-oil revenue and generate funds for infrastructure and social services.
Beyond governmental benefits, the NSW is projected to deliver significant gains to businesses and consumers. By streamlining supply chains and reducing storage costs, importers and exporters will experience lower operational expenses, while consumers will enjoy faster access to goods and potentially lower prices. Overall, the initiative is expected to enhance Nigeria’s global trade ranking and position the country as a competitive hub for commerce in Africa. FIRS and NCS have pledged ongoing coordination to ensure all integration milestones are met ahead of the March 2026 launch.
Source: The Nation