The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), Mr. Kingsley Igwe, has emphasized the need for domesticating the National Single Window (NSW) technology, insisting that its implementation should be rooted in local expertise rather than relying on foreign consultants.
Speaking during a panel session at the ongoing National Single Window Stakeholders Forum at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, Igwe stressed that Nigeria should develop and implement ts own version of the system, citing Singapore as a model of success in achieving this without external help.
“Singapore never used any foreign consultant but relied on local knowledge—an innovation that originated from within the country,” he stated. “Whatever we are putting up for the **National Single Window should originate from Nigeria. It should be a Nigerian-borne law, with a locally developed technology, so we can use it effectively.”
Igwe highlighted the challenges currently faced due to third-party involvement in revenue collection, particularly the accessibility issues and delays caused by network failures. He explained that using an outsourced system often results in inefficiencies, requiring him to constantly contact service providers or banks to resolve issues, leading to significant time wastage.
“For example, at the moment, I’m using a third party for revenue collection, and there are so many challenges—people are unable to access payment platforms, and resolving these issues takes time,” he said. “By the time you go through the whole process of contacting them and fixing network problems, valuable time is lost. But if it is something within your own control, you don’t have to waste time, and we all know that **time is money.”
Beyond the operational benefits, Igwe pointed out the huge investment opportunities that would come with adopting the National Single Window domestically. He noted that businesses would have to invest in infrastructure and human capacity development to fully integrate with the system, creating a ripple effect of economic growth.
“Many businesses will need to invest in the necessary facilities and technology required to access the National Single Window” he explained. “Now, imagine how many companies would need to install the relevant systems to ensure smooth integration. The investment opportunities around this are enormous.”
He further noted that CRFFN, as a regulatory body, would also have to enhance capacity building both for freight forwarders and its own staff. This, he explained, would require significant investment in infrastructure across the country.
“For us as regulators, this means we must invest in training and facility upgrades to effectively discharge our responsibilities. And this is not limited to one location it will be a nationwide initiative,” he said. “For me, I have to implement this across all 36 states, and you know what that means in terms of investment and logistics.”
Igwe concluded by reiterating his call for the domestication of the National Single Window, emphasizing that beyond making trade facilitation more efficient, it also presents a golden opportunity for Nigeria to build local capacity and drive economic investment in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.
