The Federal Government has announced plans to launch the National Single Window (NSW) for Trade on March 27, 2026, in a move aimed at modernising Nigeria’s trade and port operations through digital technology.
The initiative is designed as a centralised digital platform that will integrate all government agencies involved in import and export processes into a single electronic portal.
Through the platform, importers, exporters and government agencies will be able to submit, process and obtain approvals for trade-related documentation using a unified interface. Traders will only need to submit their information once, after which the data will be automatically shared with relevant regulatory agencies for processing and approvals.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the initiative as the Nigeria government prepares for the rollout of the system.
According to the agency, the National Single Window is expected to strengthen trade facilitation, improve regulatory efficiency and enhance collaboration among government institutions responsible for trade oversight.
NAFDAC, which regulates food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water, said it has played a key role in the development and operational readiness of the system.
The agency noted that it had already made major investments in digitising its regulatory processes, including the deployment of electronic platforms for product registration, permits, inspections and import and export clearances. These efforts, it said, have laid the groundwork for seamless integration into the National Single Window framework.
Ahead of the launch, NAFDAC said it had undertaken several steps to ensure a smooth transition into the new digital trade ecosystem.
These include aligning its digital platforms with the National Single Window infrastructure to ensure interoperability and efficient data exchange, reviewing operational guidelines and standard operating procedures to reflect the new processes, and strengthening collaboration with other participating agencies.
The agency also disclosed that it has commenced capacity-building programmes for staff to ensure effective use of the platform, while regulatory documentation and guidelines on its website are being updated to reflect integration with the portal.
NAFDAC said the initiative would enhance regulatory transparency, reduce duplication of processes, minimise delays in cargo clearance and support efforts to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
The agency added that the National Single Window represents a major step in Nigeria’s trade modernisation agenda, noting that it would help ensure regulatory processes are more efficient, transparent and aligned with global best practices.
NAFDAC therefore urged importers, exporters, manufacturers and other stakeholders involved in the trade of regulated products to familiarise themselves with the platform and comply with updated procedures that will accompany its implementation.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health while supporting national economic growth through efficient and technology-driven regulatory systems.
