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The Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) has praised the federal government for taking bold steps to bring the long-delayed National Single Window (NSW) project to life, ending more than a decade and a half of planning, trials, and uncertainty.
In a statement signed by MARCON President Ismail Aniemu and Secretary Olamide Osho, the association commended the growing number of stakeholders rallying behind the project, describing the NSW as a game changer capable of transforming Nigeria’s economy. The organisation also urged participants in the country’s import, export, manufacturing, and logistics sectors to prepare for technology-driven capacity development that would strengthen Nigeria’s role as Africa’s economic powerhouse.
MARCON singled out the NSW project directorate within the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for promoting inclusivity, maintaining robust stakeholder engagement, and driving awareness of the project’s benefits. By consolidating documentation and automating approvals, the NSW is expected to eliminate redundant paperwork and multiple agency interactions, dramatically cutting cargo clearance times. This, in turn, will reduce demurrage charges and logistical bottlenecks, saving businesses billions of naira annually. According to the association, importers and exporters will avoid unnecessary costs from port delays, while small businesses will gain easier access to global markets. The resulting efficiencies in the supply chain are expected to boost productivity across manufacturing, agriculture, and e-commerce sectors.
Aniemu explained, “The one-document submission, accessible and usable for security, regulatory, and revenue purposes without the old way of multiple submissions, is the right way to go. This process is indeed revolutionary as it will further propel Nigeria into paperless business transactions, promoting speed, transparency, and preventing trade disputes.”
He added, “We are optimistic about the accountability this system will bring to all users. It will usher in true trade facilitation and ease of doing business. We call on all business people to join in ensuring the success of the project, which is set to commence by the end of the first quarter of 2026.”
MARCON highlighted additional benefits expected from the NSW, including streamlined documentation, reduced administrative burdens, cost savings, enhanced government revenue, greater transparency, anti-corruption measures, and increased investor confidence that could attract foreign direct investment.
The organisation concluded that the NSW represents a significant step toward modernising Nigeria’s trade infrastructure, fostering a more efficient and productive supply chain, and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth that benefits both businesses and the wider population.
