Logistics expert Musa raises concerns over NSW project implementation
By Uzor Odigbo
The Nigerian National Single Window (NSW) project, set for implementation later this month, has drawn caution from logistics expert Dr. Segun Musa, who warned that government agencies could sabotage its adoption.
As Chairman and Managing Director of Widescope Logistics International, Musa said the project risks becoming “a shell without content” if agencies fail to fully commit to online processing.
He explained that resistance from even one agency could cripple the system, as consignments would not clear the port without complete digital approval.
“Single Window is just a jamboree; it might end up like the Deep Blue Project. If one agency refuses to process documents online, consignments will not leave the port,” Musa said.
This concern comes as the National Single Window Committee rolls out extensive preparations ahead of the March 27 launch. End-user training sessions began on February 16 in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other regions. Stakeholders—including importers, exporters, customs brokers, and freight associations—are being trained on navigating the system.
Director of the NSW Project, Mr. Tola Fakolade, emphasized the importance of the training, noting that laptops are provided for hands-on practice.
A transition committee has also been established, with representatives from key agencies including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Pinnacle News Magazine quoted Fakolade as saying that helped desks and walk-in centers are being set up to support stakeholders during the rollout.
While the NSW aims to unify trade processes on a single digital platform, agencies show varying levels of readiness. For instance, Customs already operates digital clearance systems, and NAFDAC and SON have electronic platforms for product registration and certification that could integrate smoothly if harmonized.
However, NAQS and NESREA remain heavily reliant on physical documentation, raising questions about their ability to adapt quickly.
The Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) has also expressed skepticism about the rushed implementation, echoing Musa’s warning.
The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), which drives the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business reforms, has consistently advocated for streamlined regulations and digital innovations to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks.
In partnership with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), PEBEC recently inaugurated the Ports and Customs Efficiency Committee to reduce cargo dwell time and improve port efficiency. PEBEC Director General Princess Zahrah Mustapha noted that efficient seaports are crucial to lowering costs for port users and unlocking economic opportunities. PEBEC’s agenda aligns closely with the NSW project, aiming to make Nigeria’s trade environment more transparent and competitive.
The NSW is designed to streamline trade, reduce corruption, and enhance transparency. However, Musa’s concerns highlight the risk that entrenched interests could undermine the reform. If agencies fail to fully align, the platform could remain largely symbolic rather than truly transformative.
