FG Moves to End Export Bottlenecks

The Nigerian government is intensifying efforts to eliminate bottlenecks and delays in the country's export sector, as Phase 2 of the National Single Window (NSW) project prepares to launch on December 14. The digital platform aims to simplify export procedures, reduce transaction costs, and enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian products.

The National Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has stressed that efficient trade facilitation systems are crucial for Nigeria to become a leading non-oil exporter, alongside increased production. In 2025, Nigeria generated $6.1 billion from non-oil exports, an 11.5% increase from $5.46 billion in 2024, with exports rising by 10% to 8.02 million metric tonnes.

The NSW platform will provide a unified digital space for submitting and processing trade-related documents, reducing administrative burdens on businesses and improving inter-agency coordination. The NEPC has begun integrating relevant export-related services into the platform, including an Exporter's Certificate registration service.

The Phase 2 implementation is particularly significant for the South-South region, with vast opportunities in agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, agro-processing, and manufacturing. Exporters are urged to actively participate in technical sessions covering procedures and requirements. The first component of Phase 2 will go live on December 14, with digital issuance of export permits by regulatory agencies, while the second component, involving Central Bank of Nigeria processes, will be deployed in the first quarter of 2027.

The initiative aims to make exporting from Nigeria easier, faster, more transparent, and more competitive.