By Chidi Ugwu
The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has described the impending National Single Window project as a major step towards transforming the economy by removing barriers to seamless international trade.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, TMSG noted that Nigerians will, from the first few months of next year, enjoy efficiency in transactions at the nation’s ports.
It said: “After 15 months of coordinated work, Nigeria is now on the verge of removing all barriers to effective trade by putting in place a digital platform for trade facilitation at its ports.
”We see it as a bold step towards entrenching efficiency in a country that has, for long, been bogged down by systemic problems that made Nigerian ports less attractive compared to their counterparts in neighbouring countries.
”The initiative, which is now to take off within the first quarter of 2026, will integrate all government agencies operating at the ports into a centralised electronic platform for importers and exporters, that will not only cut costs but also reduce bureaucracy to the barest minimum.
”It is noteworthy that the process will be overseen by the Federal Internal Revenue Service (FIRS), which will, from next year, transform to the National Revenue Service (NRS) in line with the new Tax Act of 2024.
”Until the President Bola Tinubu administration decided to launch the National Single Window within his first few months in office, the country was known to have lost billions of naira to inefficiency and outright corruption.
”So it is indeed another bold testament to the President’s commitment to reforming the economy and institutionalising efficiency in all facets of our national life.
”We are elated that after several months of interactions, the steering committee set up to kickstart the National Single Window project is wrapping up its work ahead of take-off in the first quarter of 2026.
”It is a good development that will introduce a paperless system at the ports while streamlining the process into one electronic platform for importers and exporters.
”We are convinced that by the time the digital trade platform goes into operation, the country will witness a boost in revenues as well as improved transparency at the ports which will ultimately strengthen Nigeria’s global business credibility.
”Most importantly, it will put the country firmly on track for its $1 trillion economy projection by accelerating economic growth, which will bode well for the relevant sectors of the economy.”
The group urged all stakeholders to live up to the president’s expectations by ensuring that all the processes are in place for the digital platform long before the deadline.
