National Single Window to Boost Nigeria’s IMO Category ‘C’ Bid – NPA MD
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has said that implementing a National Single Window (NSW) will enhance Nigeria’s standing in global maritime affairs and support the country’s bid for admission into Category ‘C’ of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Speaking at the opening of a stakeholders’ conference on the NSW in Lagos, Dantsoho described the initiative as the most strategic port development project since Nigeria’s port reforms in 2003. He emphasized that a seamless single-window system would improve trade facilitation and streamline port operations, aligning Nigeria with international best practices.
> “Now, the reason is the single window operations relate to over 500 million container movements in the world and over 50 billion tons of cargo through the sea, land, and airports,” Dantsoho stated.
He commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for driving the implementation of the NSW, saying it will enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports and improve the country’s integration into global trade.
### **Alignment with Global Maritime Standards**
Dantsoho highlighted that the NSW is essential for Nigeria to comply with the IMO’s **Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic**, which aims to reduce delays in maritime trade and promote cooperation among governments. He also noted that the **World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement** mandates member states to adopt the single window system, making its implementation a necessity for Nigeria.
The NPA, he added, has been proactive in preparing for the NSW through its **Port Community System (PCS)**—a precursor to the single window that enhances information-sharing among stakeholders. Recently, Nigeria was admitted into the **International Port Community System Association (IPCSA)**, joining top African ports such as **Tangier Med (Morocco), Tema (Ghana), Lomé (Togo), Abidjan (Ivory Coast), and Cotonou (Benin Republic).**
> “Clearly, the National Single Window is a central piece in the modernization of our trade facilitation, and the NPA, under the visionary leadership of the Honourable Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, is fully committed to its successful implementation,” he said.
### **Boost for Transshipment Hub Ambitions**
Dantsoho underscored Nigeria’s potential to become a leading **transshipment hub in West Africa**, leveraging its **strategic location, population of over 200 million people, and large market size**. He noted that **16 of the world’s 44 landlocked countries are in Africa**, presenting Nigeria with a unique opportunity to serve as a transit hub for these nations.
However, he cautioned that **infrastructure challenges and increasing competition from neighboring ports** remain hurdles. To address this, the NPA is pursuing **port modernization projects** to ensure Nigerian ports remain competitive.
> “Other major African ports have recorded successes due to their early adoption of both the port community system and the national single window. Nigeria must follow suit to remain relevant,” Dantsoho emphasized.
### **Ongoing Efforts and Challenges**
Dantsoho acknowledged that implementing a single window system is complex and requires sustained effort. Since **2011**, the NPA has been working on full adoption of the PCS, integrating key digital platforms such as:
– **ECEN**
– **Revenue Invoice Management System**
– **Oracle Financials**
– **Casual and Port Profit Monitoring Information System**
He also stressed the need for **collaboration among government agencies**, stating that seamless coordination is critical for the successful implementation of both the NSW and PCS.
> “We are committed to eliminating bottlenecks, ensuring zero tolerance for delays, and improving service delivery at our ports. The Nigerian Port Authority will continue to provide leadership in driving this transformational initiative,” he concluded.
The stakeholders’ conference continues in Lagos, with industry experts discussing the roadmap for implementing the National Single Window and optimizing Nigeria’s maritime potential.
About The Author
