Tinubu Directs National Single Window Project to Launch by Q1 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a clear directive for Nigeria’s National Single Window (NSW) digital trade platform to go live by the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to driving trade efficiency and economic growth.
The order was delivered during the fifth meeting of the NSW Steering Committee, held at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday. Representing the President, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila emphasised the importance of the NSW platform in achieving the administration’s economic ambitions, including the $1 trillion economy goal.
What Is the National Single Window (NSW)?
The National Single Window is a centralised digital portal designed to streamline Nigeria’s import and export processes by integrating all trade-related government agencies into a single online platform. Launched in April 2024, the NSW is expected to:
- Enhance transparency in trade processes
- Reduce documentation and customs delays
- Cut trade costs significantly
- Minimise human interference and bureaucratic bottlenecks
- Boost Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness
Tinubu’s Vision: Structural Reform for Economic Growth
Gbajabiamila tied the urgency of the NSW rollout to broader structural reforms, including the recent Tax Reform Acts, and urged all involved agencies to intensify implementation efforts.
“This project is one of Mr. President’s transformative initiatives. We must stay focused to meet our timelines and deliver the results expected of us,” – Femi Gbajabiamila
Key Voices and Progress Report
Wale Edun – Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minister of the Economy:
Edun described the initiative as a “complex but transformational” project and stressed the need to shift from planning to execution. “We must now move from strategy to action,” – Wale Edun
Jumoke Oduwole – Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment:
She emphasised that the Q1 2026 deadline is non-negotiable and urged all stakeholders to deliver.
Dr. Zacch Adedeji – Executive Chairman, FIRS:
Dr. Adedeji highlighted the NSW’s recent legal backing, noting that the platform is now enshrined in law, which strengthens implementation and accountability. “The reward for hard work is more work,” – Zacch Adedeji
Tola Fakolade – Director, National Single Window Project:
Fakolade reported that all Q2 2025 milestones have been completed, with customisation of the digital platform underway. “We are confident of meeting our rollout deadline,” – Tola Fakolade
Why the National Single Window Matters
Benefits of the NSW Digital Platform:
- Faster cargo clearance at ports
- Simplified trade documentation
- Improved investor confidence
- Boost to economic diversification
- Enhanced collaboration between key agencies
The platform is seen as a critical enabler for Nigeria’s plans to grow its non-oil exports and improve its position in global trade rankings.
Who’s Involved?
The NSW Steering Committee includes representatives from:
- Federal Ministry of Finance
- Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment
- Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
- Nigeria Customs Service
- Other trade-regulating bodies
Conclusion
The Federal Government’s push to operationalise the National Single Window by Q1 2026 reflects a larger strategy to digitise Nigeria’s trade infrastructure and position the country for sustainable economic growth. With strong leadership, legal backing, and milestone-based execution already in motion, the NSW is poised to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic transformation.
