The National Single Window platform is designed strictly to facilitate trade and streamline processes across government agencies involved in import and export operations, the Director of the National Single Window project, Tola Fakolade, has said.

Fakolade, who clarified misconceptions surrounding the initiative at the sensitisation drive for Nigeria Customs Service in Lagos, said, the NSW would simplify processes, reduce delays, and strengthen transparency within the system.

The first phase of the National Single Window (NSW) platforms is set for launch on March 27, 2026.

According to Fakolade, the platform will not encroach on the statutory revenue functions of any agency.

“The National Single Window is not taking any revenue from agencies. What it will do is facilitate ease of trade by integrating processes and improving transparency across all participating agencies,” he explained.

He further stressed that the initiative is not a tool for tax collection by the Nigeria Revenue Service but a presidential project established to modernise Nigeria’s trade infrastructure.

“The National Single Window is a presidential initiative with a steering committee made up of all relevant government agencies, each duly represented and led by the presidency. Though the project is funded by the Nigeria Revenue Service, the goal is not to compete with any agency but to improve collaboration and efficiency,” Fakolade added.

Also speaking, the Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) of Customs in charge of ICT/Modernisation, Oluyomi Adebakin, highlighted the strategic importance of the platform for Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.

Adebakin noted that the National Single Window would significantly enhance operational efficiency within Customs while improving Nigeria’s standing in international trade circles.

She stated that by digitising and harmonising trade-related procedures, the platform would help position Nigeria more favourably in the global trading environment.

“The National Single Window will improve the image of Nigeria in the comity of nations as it relates to trade. It will simplify processes, reduce delays, and strengthen transparency within the system,” Adebakin said.

The Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Mohammed Babandede, stated that the National Single Window will work seamlessly with B’Odogwu and other trade platforms to strengthen the Service’s modernisation drive and improve service delivery.