NAGAFF slams Amiwero’s call for National Single Window suspension, reaffirms support for project

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has dismissed a petition by the factional President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents ( NCMDLCA) Mr. Lucky Amiwero, calling for the suspension of the National Single Window project.

In a statement issued by its Secretary General, Godfrey Nwosu, NAGAFF described the call as a campaign of calumny, noting that it reflects personal grievances rather than objective industry concerns.

The association said that prematurely labeling the NSW a failure before its first phase has even rolled out risks misleading stakeholders and undermining national progress.

Amiwero had in a petition addressed to the Presidency urged the Federal Government to halt the NSW implementation, claiming the project contravenes the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and amounts to a duplication of the Nigeria Customs Service’s functions.

He further alleged that the NSW would impose unspecified charges, making Nigerian ports the most expensive globally.

NAGAFF, however, countered these claims, describing the NSW as a forward-looking reform and a one-stop portal essential for modern trade processing.

The association emphasized that the project is not a duplication of duties but a vital harmonization of trade processes anchored in international law.

Highlighting the inherent advantages of the project, NAGAFF noted that the initiative is designed to streamline documentation for import, export, and transit goods, reduce process duplication across various government agencies.

It added that the project will enhance transparency and efficiency in port operations as well as lower the cost of doing business, thereby improving Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

Citing the need to align Nigeria with international best practices, NAGAFF cautioned Amiwero against becoming a clog in the wheel of progress.

The group maintained that the freight forwarding industry must embrace reforms that attract foreign direct investment and prevent the diversion of cargo to neighboring countries.

“NAGAFF reaffirms its total support for the National Single Window project,” Nwosu stated. “We urge all stakeholders to embrace this initiative for the greater good of Nigeria’s economy and to move forward with reforms that promote efficiency and transparency.”