NAFDAC aligns systems as Nigeria prepares single window trade platform

Nigeria’s drug and food regulator, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), said it has aligned its digital systems with the government’s planned National Single Window platform ahead of the launch of the trade reform later this month.

The federal government is scheduled to deploy the digital platform, known as the National Single Window, on March 27 as part of efforts to modernise trade and port operations in Africa’s most populous nation.

The system will serve as a single electronic portal connecting government agencies involved in import and export procedures. It will allow traders to submit documents once, while the information is shared automatically with all relevant regulators for approvals and compliance checks.

NAFDAC, which regulates food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water in Nigeria, said it has taken steps to ensure its regulatory systems work smoothly with the new platform.

The agency said its digital platforms for product registration, permits, inspections and import-export clearances have been aligned with the National Single Window infrastructure to enable data exchange and interoperability with other government institutions.

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NAFDAC added that it has reviewed its operational guidelines and standard procedures to reflect the changes expected under the new trade system.

Officials also said the agency has strengthened cooperation with other government bodies involved in trade facilitation, border control and regulatory oversight as preparations for the launch continue.

Training programmes have been organised for staff to help them adapt to the new platform, while regulatory documentation on the agency’s website is being updated to reflect the integration.

According to NAFDAC, the reforms are expected to improve transparency, reduce duplication in regulatory processes and shorten the time required for cargo clearance at Nigerian ports.

The agency said the platform represents an important step in Nigeria’s effort to modernise trade administration and improve the ease of doing business.

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It also encouraged importers, exporters and manufacturers dealing in regulated products to familiarise themselves with the new system and comply with updated procedures when the platform becomes operational.

NAFDAC said it remains committed to protecting public health while supporting economic growth through efficient and technology-driven regulatory systems.