National Single Window to come on stream this year, says Adeniyi

THE Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has assured that the National Single Window will come on stream this year.

He said the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, is spearheading the initiative to streamline customs operations, enhance port competitiveness and efficiency as well as synchronise approach import and export processes. The Customs boss stated this in an interaction posted on the Service’s Facebook page last weekend. He outlined a vision focused on consolidation, consultation and technology initiatives to address complex challenges.

Adeniyi said the introduction of the single window technology is aimed at enhancing port competitiveness and efficiency and customs operations with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘ Renewed Hope’ agenda.

The Customs boss also emphasised the use of technology to leapfrog revenue generation and enhance enforcement efficiency.

The Customs boss said the simplified port operation will enhance port competitiveness and efficiency, adding that the policy advisory document enunciated by the administration was very clear on some of the directions in which the government wanted to go.

“The Minister of Finance has been very clear on this particular initiative, to deploy and install a single window for clearance of goods in the ports and all stakeholders, including customs, are expected to sign up and follow the needs provided by the minister in this particular category,” Adeniyi stated.

Speaking on the role of customs beyond revenue generation, Adeniyi stated that the global trend of customs administrations is shifting to trade facilitation, security and development.

He highlighted the significance of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement ( AFCFTA) in creating a prosperous market for Africa.