Nigeria to launch National Single Window Phase one in March

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to launch the Phase 1 of the National Single Window (NSW) Project on March 27, 2026.

This move reforms the country’s trade ecosystem with technology, transparency, and smarter regulations

The NSW is a centralized digital platform that allows traders submit all trade-related information once through a single interface. Government agencies then access, process, and approve documents seamlessly.

It promises to cut delays, eliminate duplication, boost efficiency, and lower business costs at ports and borders.

Mr. Tola Fakolade, Director of the National Single Window Project, outlined the phase rollout as the Phase 1 targets statutory permits and cargo manifests to stabilize the system and deliver quick wins on key bottlenecks.

He stated that ”We have learned from past ‘big bang’ tech rollouts that caused disruptions,”

“Phasing prioritizes sustainability, user adoption, and improvement. Future phases will expand scope, add agencies, and integrate the full trade chain, using real data and feedback for scalability.

“The government pledges close collaboration with private sector, partners, and stakeholders for a smooth rollout.

“This unlocks faster goods movement, stronger revenue, and a competitive edge for Nigerian businesses,” Fakolade added.

With Phase 1 live soon, Nigeria advances modern trade governance focused on efficiency, transparency, and adaptability.

During the project’s inauguration on April 16, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hailed the NSW as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s trade and economic reforms.

“It will replace fragmentation with coordination, opacity with transparency, and delay with efficiency,” the Presidency quoted him saying.

He linked it to goals like economic diversification, non-oil export growth, and ease of doing business.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole called it a game-changer that simplifies and democratises trade. The platform streamlines documentation for better transparency, tracking, and higher trade volumes—especially benefiting experienced traders.