Successful implementation of National Single Window will lead to increased trade volumes, revenue – FAAN MD, Kuku

The Managing Director/CEO of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku says a successful implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) will lead to increased trade volumes and greater revenue for the government and all stakeholders

Kuku reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to enhancing trade facilitation and positioning Nigeria as a global trade hub through the National Single Window initiative.

The FAAN boss stated this while speaking at the National Single Window Stakeholders’ Forum in Lagos on Tuesday January 28, 2025.

She emphasised the critical role of aviation in international commerce and the necessity of a streamlined technology-driven approach to trade operations.

According to her, Nigeria, with its vast resources and manpower, must leverage the Single Window initiative to capture a greater share of this trade.

She said “The Single Window initiative represents an innovative digital platform that integrates government agencies, private stakeholders, and financial institutions to streamline trade processes, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and enhance efficiency.”

Kuku highlighted the impact of air cargo on global trade, citing data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that indicates that air cargo facilitates the transportation of goods worth over $8 trillion annually, accounting for approximately 33% of global trade by volume.
Mrs Kuku underscored the far-reaching benefits of the Single Window initiative, including:

Efficiency – Accelerated trade processes at cargo terminals, reducing delays and optimising operations.

Transparency – Real-time tracking and updates to foster trust and accountability among stakeholders.

Cost Savings – Reduction in delays, prevention of revenue leakages, and a significant drop in storage and operational costs.

Regulatory Compliance – Improved adherence to international trade standards, enhancing Nigeria’s global trade standing.

Stronger Global Partnerships – Strengthening Nigeria’s position in international trade by aligning with global best practices.

Despite these potential gains, Mrs Kuku acknowledged the challenges posed by fragmentation among agencies and reluctance to collaborate.

She warned that when individual interests overshadow collective progress, it creates barriers to success.

“No agency or stakeholder can succeed alone. It is through teamwork that we ensure sustainable progress. It is through collaboration that we unlock our true potential,” she asserted.

Mrs Kuku urged stakeholders to embrace the Single Window initiative, not as a mere technological tool but as a transformative movement for efficiency, growth, and national prosperity.