By Sandra Chukwunyere
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) National President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, has expressed strong optimism about the Federal Government’s forthcoming National Single Window (NSW) project, describing it as a transformative step for cargo clearance in Nigeria. The platform is set to launch on March 27, 2026.
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Speaking with journalists in Lagos recently, Ezisi believes the NSW will significantly streamline operations at Nigerian ports, reducing cargo clearance time by at least 75%. This improvement will enhance trade facilitation, boost commercial activities, and make import and export processes more efficient for businesses.
“The NSW is a Federal Government initiative aimed at integrating all relevant trade and regulatory agencies into a unified digital platform,” Ezisi explained.
“The platform allows agencies to access and share information in real-time, eliminating the need for physical visits to different offices. “This makes clearance procedures faster, more transparent, and less stressful.”
He highlighted the Nigeria Customs Service’s role in developing the Time Release Study, saying the Single Window will further strengthen its effectiveness.
Freight forwarders eagerly anticipate the platform’s rollout, calling it a welcome development. “By allowing agencies to access and share information in real-time, the system will eliminate the need for freight forwarders and other stakeholders to move physically from one office to another,” Ezisi noted.
While acknowledging potential initial technical or network-related challenges, Ezisi is confident in the project’s security framework and the Federal Government’s commitment to its success. Any agency undermining the system would be challenging federal authority.
The NSW is expected to reduce operational costs by promoting efficiency and transparency in cargo processing. Ezisi urges stakeholders to take advantage of ongoing end-user training sessions, which are free and include meals. “The turnout has been encouraging, but I appeal to those who haven’t registered to please do so,” he added.
Cargo clearance currently takes 3-4 days with proper documentation and 48 hours with accurate declarations. Ezisi stresses that truthful declaration is critical for fast clearance under the new digital regime. “Honest declaration is the single most important thing a freight forwarder can do to speed up the process,” he emphasized.
Ezisi encourages freight forwarders to embrace the National Single Window, positioning themselves to benefit from its full potential. The initiative marks a turning point for the industry, and stakeholders must seize the opportunity.
