Single Window Failing Without Synergy With NPA, Customs, Expert Warns

A master mariner, Captain Iheanacho Ebubeogu, has warned that Nigeria’s National Single Window (NSW) initiative may fail if there is no strong synergy between the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Ebubeogu, a former general manager of Corporate and Strategic Communications at the NPA, gave the warning in Lagos in a town hall organised by JournalNG, where he stressed that collaboration between the two critical agencies remains the backbone of the initiative.

“I want to plead for NPA and Customs to develop synergy for the National Single Window. The first thing to do, apart from ensuring power, energy availability and internet, is for NPA and Customs to create seamless synergy as the heartbeat of the initiative. Otherwise, it will not work,” he said.

He explained that while infrastructure such as stable electricity and reliable internet connectivity are essential, institutional coordination is even more critical to achieving seamless cargo clearance and efficient port operations.

The maritime expert noted that the global shift towards smart and green ports underscores the urgency for Nigeria to modernise its port systems, adding that vessel traffic management must also be prioritised alongside digital reforms.

According to him, both the NPA and the NCS possess the capacity and operational reach to drive the successful implementation of the NSW, particularly in achieving round-the-clock port operations.

Ebubeogu emphasised that effective collaboration between port authorities and digital system operators would determine whether the initiative delivers its intended benefits of efficiency, transparency and reduced cargo dwell time.

He further called for the integration of environmental sustainability and advanced marine operational systems into Nigeria’s port modernisation agenda, noting that these elements are critical to aligning the country with global best practices.

The National Single Window is designed to streamline trade processes by integrating multiple government agencies on a single digital platform, with the aim of simplifying documentation, reducing delays and enhancing ease of doing business at the nation’s ports.