Significant Rise in Applications Through National Single Window Portal
A total of 39,039 applications for licenses, certificates, permits, and other documentation were submitted via the National Single Window Portal over the past eight weeks, as reported by Saturday Punch.
Growing Dependence on the National Single Window
On Friday in Lagos, NSW Secretary-General Tola Fakolade addressed journalists regarding the platform’s progress since its initial phase was implemented in March, noting a marked increase in reliance on the New South Wales portal for trade-related filings.
Insights on LPCO Applications Breakdown
Fakolade detailed that the impressive figures include 30,937 applications submitted by the Nigeria Standards Organization and 7,942 from the National Food and Drugs Regulatory Authority. Additionally, the National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency reported 138 applications, while the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service received 22 applications.
Surge in Registered Users on the NSW Platform
During the survey period, the NSW platform saw 7,567 new registered users, encompassing traders, licensed customs brokers, clearers, forwarders, and other stakeholders in the trade ecosystem. Among them were 6,935 importers, 359 clearing and forwarding companies, 104 freight forwarders, and 169 licensed customs brokers.
Advancements Since the Air Cargo Manifest Module Launch
Fakolade emphasized that since the air cargo manifest module was launched on March 27, 2026, with DHL serving as the pilot airline, a total of 136 manifests have been submitted. Currently, eight airlines and couriers are utilizing the NSW platform for air cargo manifest submissions.
Comprehensive Training Initiatives Underway
Since February 2026, New South Wales has implemented training sessions in major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano to equip ministries, departments, agencies, and private sector stakeholders with the necessary skills to effectively use the NSW platform. Ongoing training for civilian users aims to ensure they fully understand the system and receive the guidance needed for smooth operation.
Public Stakeholder Training Efforts
A total of 2,990 private sector stakeholders have received training tailored to importers, exporters, forwarders, licensed customs brokers, and related users. Additionally, 579 representatives from various ministries and departments were trained to ensure they comprehend the process flow and their specific responsibilities within the NSW framework. This training covered critical tasks such as application review, approval, escalation, and stakeholder support across several regulatory agencies, including NAQS, SON, NESREA, and NAFDAC.
Upcoming Phase for Full Rollout of Manifests
Looking ahead, Fakolade revealed that the second phase of the portal’s rollout is set to commence in June. This phase will focus on finalizing the processes for all airlines and shipping companies to submit their manifests via the New South Wales platform.
