Nigeria's National Single Window Platform Launches at DHL Apapa with Minor Technical Hiccups
The electronic submission and transmission of cargo manifest data to the National Single Window (NSW) platform encountered minor setbacks during its live launch at the DHL office in Apapa, Lagos. The platform, aimed at overhauling Nigeria's trade facilitation architecture, went live yesterday, with initial uploads facing delays due to system glitches linked to a recent password update.
Initial Challenges and Swift Resolution
During the live transmission, observers noted 11 failed attempts before successful uploads were achieved. Davids Malachi, Senior Gateway Manager of DHL, clarified that the issue was temporary and being addressed by the technical team. "It's an update of the password which happened last night, so it's causing the glitches and delays in transmitting the manifest into the NSW," he explained. Despite these hiccups, the system successfully processed submissions during the session, with the next stage involving the generation of a rotation number to enable further cargo processing and assessment.
Officials from the NSW, Nigeria Customs Service, and Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) were informed that the first consignment had already secured its rotation number, allowing the process to advance. The technical team continued uploading additional manifest entries in real time, which were successful.
Stakeholder Collaboration and Platform Benefits
Tola Fakolade, Director of the NSW Project, stated that the live demonstration at DHL is part of broader efforts to showcase how stakeholders can leverage the platform to streamline cargo clearance, reduce delays, and enhance transparency. He acknowledged minor technical issues but highlighted rapid response from joint technical teams, underscoring inter-agency collaboration. "In the beginning, we could have some issues here and there, but what is important is that the technical teams are there to resolve them," Fakolade said.
Oluyomi Adebakin, Deputy Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service in charge of ICT and Modernisation, noted that the system update temporarily disrupted transmission processes but was promptly addressed. She emphasized that minor glitches are expected in such large-scale projects and assured stakeholders of seamless operations through collaborative efforts. Adebakin added that the NSW and B'Odogwu systems would bring economic gains and improved efficiency, positioning Nigeria to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Enhanced Efficiency and Data Harmonization
Lekan Thomas, Director of Cargo Development and Services at FAAN, highlighted that the NSW rollout at airports will enhance cargo efficiency, strengthen security, and improve data-driven planning. He pointed out benefits such as reduced cargo dwell time and harmonized data across agencies, addressing longstanding inefficiencies. "The availability of accurate and unified data will enable government agencies and private sector players to make more informed decisions, ultimately boosting national revenue and economic performance," Thomas stated.
Muyiwa Adejeyoju, Managing Director of DHL, expressed pride in participating in the accreditation process and rollout, aligning with the company's global mission of connecting people and improving lives. He reaffirmed DHL's commitment to supporting government efforts in modernizing trade processes and maintaining regulatory compliance.
