The Federal Government of Nigeria plans to implement a National Single Window (NSW) system to reduce port-related business costs by at least 25%. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced this initiative at a stakeholders’ forum in Lagos, highlighting that the NSW aims to streamline operations, enhance transparency, and minimize delays in port activities.

The World Bank has previously noted that the cost of conducting business at Nigerian ports can be up to 40% higher than in some West African countries, primarily due to delays and administrative bottlenecks. These inefficiencies lead to an estimated annual revenue loss of ₦2.5 trillion within the business community.

Oyetola emphasized that the NSW would drive cost savings and strengthen trade facilitation by improving efficiency and transparency. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing multimodal connectivity—improving road, rail, and inland waterway links to and from the ports—to reduce transportation costs and boost trade.

Recent efforts include collaboration with the Lagos State Government to clear the longstanding Apapa–Tincan–Mile 2 traffic congestion, and the provision of equipment such as tugboats and mooring boats across all port locations. These initiatives have led to a reduction in vessel turnaround time from an average of seven days to five days, and truck turnaround time from ten days to a few hours.

With an expansive coastline of 853 kilometers and a maritime area exceeding 46,000 square kilometers, Nigeria is strategically positioned to leverage its marine and blue economy for sustainable economic growth. The government aims to make Nigeria the maritime hub of West Africa, contributing significantly to GDP, job creation, and regional and global trade.