The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) welcomes with great enthusiasm the Federal Government’s official announcement of the launch of the first phase of the National Single Window (NSW), scheduled for March 27, 2026. This landmark initiative underscores a renewed commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s trade ecosystem and significantly enhancing the ease of doing business.
The first phase of the National Single Window will focus on the digital integration of permits and manifest management – a foundational step toward harmonizing border processes, improving regulatory compliance, and unlocking efficiencies across the entire trade value chain. See more
The NSW platform has been widely anticipated by public and private stakeholders alike. Its phased deployment signals a major shift toward global best practices in international trade facilitation, and the ANLCA remains proud to partner with government agencies, the private sector, and trade associations to ensure its seamless implementation.
Speaking on the announcement, Mr. Emenike Nwokoji, President, Association of Nigeria Licensed Custom Agents (ANLCA), stated:
“This announcement marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s trade history. The National Single Window represents more than a digital platform, it is a strategic enabler of economic growth, competitiveness, and transparency. By simplifying permits and manifest filings into a single integrated system, we are setting the stage for faster cargo clearance, reduced cost of trade operations, and enhanced confidence for investors and traders. The positive impact on stakeholders from customs agents to importers and exporters cannot be overstated.”
Mr. Nwokoji further emphasized that the successful launch and adoption of the NSW will catalyze broader economic benefits for Nigeria, including job creation, increased foreign direct investment, and strengthened competitiveness within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
Mr. Tola Fakolade, Director, National Single Window Project, echoed the sentiment, noting:
“The launch of the National Single Window, beginning with permits and manifest, is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to trade facilitation and digital transformation. Our goal is to eliminate inefficiencies and harmonize processes across multiple regulatory agencies. This platform will foster transparency, reduce redundancies, and deliver predictability for all stakeholders ;customs brokers, freight forwarders, shipping companies, and the broader trading community.”
Mr. Fakolade reiterated that the NSW will provide a single entry point for regulatory submission, significantly reducing the time and cost traditionally associated with cross-border trade procedures. He added that ongoing engagement with stakeholders will continue throughout subsequent phases to ensure that the platform remains responsive, user-friendly, and aligned with industry needs.
The ANLCA President believes the NSW will usher in an era of improved compliance, enhanced data accuracy, and optimized trade workflows.
The Association calls on public and private trade stakeholders, especially its members to support this transformational initiative, actively participate in training and sensitization programs, and collaborate to maximize the potential of the National Single Window.
Learn more about the National Single Window click here