Shippers’ Council backs National Single Window to drive Synergy, efficiency in Nigeria’s ports

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius, MON, has declared that the proposed National Single Window (NSW) platform will significantly transform Nigeria’s port system.

Maintaining that the platform will eliminate duplication, enhance transparency and promote seamless inter-agency collaboration.

Speaking during a meeting convened by the House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters, chaired by Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, Dr. Akutah described the initiative as a long-awaited reform capable of resolving deep-rooted operational inefficiencies in the maritime sector.

According to him, Nigeria’s port operations have for years been hampered by the fragmented activities of multiple government agencies operating in silos, often resulting in procedural delays, increased transaction costs and limited accountability.

“The National Single Window will harmonise port processes into a unified digital platform,” he said. “By integrating the activities of relevant government agencies, it will foster synergy, ensure data transparency and promote coordinated decision-making.”

Dr. Akutah noted that as the nation’s Port Economic Regulator, the NSC has consistently championed reforms aimed at improving operational standards, protecting port users and promoting efficiency within the maritime value chain. He added that the NSW represents a natural progression of ongoing regulatory efforts to modernise Nigeria’s port ecosystem.

The NSC boss stressed that the success of the initiative would depend largely on institutional commitment, digital readiness and strong inter-agency cooperation.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, underscored the importance of broad stakeholder engagement in the implementation process. He noted that the National Single Window carries significant economic implications, particularly in enhancing trade facilitation, improving revenue collection and strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global maritime market.

Hon. Dasuki called for inclusiveness in consultations, urging relevant agencies and private sector stakeholders to actively contribute to shaping a system that reflects the realities of Nigeria’s trade environment.

The National Single Window is widely regarded as a critical reform tool designed to simplify trade procedures by allowing stakeholders to submit regulatory documents and access approvals through a single electronic portal — a move expected to reduce cargo clearance time and curb bureaucratic bottlenecks in Nigerian ports