FG launches national single window to transform trade, port operations

By Chioma Obinna

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, yesterday announced that the Federal Government is set to launch the National Single Window, NSW, for Trade and Port Operations designed at modernising Nigeria’s trade processes, improving port efficiency and reducing delays in cargo clearance.

The National Single Window is a centralised digital platform that will integrate all government agencies involved in import and export procedures into a single electronic portal, allowing traders to submit documentation once while the information is automatically shared with relevant regulatory agencies for approvals.

Under the system, importers, exporters and regulators will be able to process trade-related documentation through a unified interface; a move government officials say will simplify procedures, enhance transparency and improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business.

In a press statement, the agency explained that it is fully prepared for the rollout and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade facilitation and regulatory efficiency through the new digital platform.

NAFDAC, one of the key regulatory bodies responsible for the control and regulation of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water, said it played a significant role in the development and operational readiness of the system.

“NAFDAC reaffirms its commitment to strengthening trade facilitation, regulatory efficiency and inter-agency collaboration as the Federal Government prepares to launch the National Single Window,” the agency said in a statement.

The agency explained that the new platform would enable seamless coordination among regulatory institutions while maintaining strict oversight to safeguard public health.

Over the years, NAFDAC said it had invested heavily in digitising its regulatory processes, including the introduction of electronic platforms for product registration, permits, inspections and import and export clearances.

“These efforts have laid a strong foundation for seamless integration into the National Single Window framework,” the agency stated.

As part of preparations for the launch, NAFDAC disclosed that it has aligned its digital systems with the National Single Window infrastructure to ensure smooth interoperability and data exchange.

It also said operational guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures were being reviewed and updated to reflect changes arising from the implementation of the new system.

According to the agency, additional steps taken include strengthening collaboration with other government institutions involved in trade facilitation and border control, training staff for effective use of the platform and updating regulatory documentation on its website.

Through the initiative, NAFDAC expects improved transparency in regulatory processes, reduced duplication of procedures and faster cargo clearance at the nation’s ports.

“The National Single Window represents a transformative step in Nigeria’s trade modernisation agenda,” the agency stated.

“NAFDAC is proud to contribute to this national initiative by ensuring that regulatory processes are efficient, transparent and aligned with global best practices.”

The agency urged importers, exporters, manufacturers and other stakeholders dealing in regulated products to familiarise themselves with the National Single Window platform and comply with the updated procedures that will accompany the new system.

It stated that while supporting trade facilitation and economic growth, it remains committed to its core mandate of protecting public health through efficient and technology-driven regulatory systems.