By Joy Enamuna

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has attributed past failures in implementing the National Single Window (NSW) to fragmented technological systems, institutional bottlenecks, and misaligned stakeholder expectations.

He also cited inadequate physical and technological infrastructure as major challenges.

Speaking at the ongoing stakeholders’ forum on NSW implementation in Lagos, Adeniyi emphasized the need for all relevant agencies involved in trade and revenue systems to unite under a common goal.

He stressed that the Single Window should not be seen as the sole responsibility of the NCS but as a national strategy requiring collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies.

According to the World Customs Organization (WCO), a Single Window (SW) is a trade facilitation mechanism that allows businesses and traders to submit standardized information and documents through a single entry point to meet all regulatory requirements for import, export, and transit.

This system aims to streamline interactions with government authorities, thereby enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing delays in cross-border trade.

Despite multiple attempts since 2014, Nigeria has yet to successfully implement the NSW.

However, industry experts have challenged this timeline, arguing that the initiative actually began in 2007, with key recommendations made in 2010 that were never implemented.

Represented at the forum by the Deputy Comptroller General of Customs (ICT), Kikelomo Adeola, Adeniyi acknowledged that past failures were primarily due to an overemphasis on technology while neglecting human and operational aspects.

He stressed that a successful NSW must reflect Nigeria’s unique trade environment by integrating user-friendly designs, interoperability with existing systems, and scalability for future growth.

“The role of Customs in this ecosystem is central, but its success depends on a symbiotic relationship where all stakeholders play their parts with precision and commitment,” he said.

“Technology is often seen as the cornerstone of the Single Window, but it is not a standalone solution. Advanced digital platforms must be complemented by process reengineering, capacity building, and proper change management.”

Adeniyi further noted that previous initiatives failed due to fragmented leadership and inconsistent policy direction.

To ensure success, he called for strong political will, institutional commitment, and active collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and development partners.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised over Nigeria’s failure to implement the NSW, as the country risks facing sanctions from the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Industry stakeholders argue that, after over a decade of unsuccessful attempts, the Federal Government must now match words with action to finally bring the National Single Window to life.