news
$2.7 billion : Boosting Revenue Generation, My Govt is targeting 24-hour port clearance, Says Tinubu
The Federal Government targets a 24-hour clearance of goods at the ports to enhance trade and ease of doing business.
To achieve this, activities of all the agencies operating at the ports have been consolidated into a single window.
Yesterday, the President inaugurated a committee on the implementation of the National Single Window Project (NSWP).
The project, an electronic platform, is designed to simplify imports and exports at the nation’s ports by eliminating all hiccups in goods clearing and exportation.
All agencies and stakeholders involved in import and export processes are integrated into the NSWP for seamless trade operations.
One of the primary goals of the project domiciled at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is to ensure that goods were cleared within 24 hours electronically.
It is also aimed at eliminating trade barriers, boosting revenue generation and improving Nigeria’s ranking in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index.
The steering committee has co-chairmen: Tola Fakolade , head of the project secretariat and Zach Adedeji, FIRS chairman. It has representatives from Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) , Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA), Standard Organisation of Nigeria(SON), exporters, importers, shipping lines and clearing agents as members. Federal ministries of Finance, Marine and Blue Economy, Transportation, Trade and Investment; Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) also have representatives in the committee.
Tinubu told the members that his administration hopes that the implementation of the initiative would bring an annual economic benefit of around $2.7 billion to the country.
“This transformative project,” said the President is not only “a bold statement” to his administration’s commitment to the prosperity of the nation but one that will to propel “our economy to new heights.”
Noting that the country has immense potential , the President lamented, however, that “for far too long, our economic growth has been hindered by the complexities and inefficiencies in our trade processes.”
“Today, we say that there should be no more, ” he said, describing the NSWP as game changer that would revolutionise the way trade is conducted in the country.
He said: “By simplifying government trade compliance through a digital platform, we will unlock the doors to economic prosperity and all other opportunities .
“This initiative will link our ports, government agencies, and key stakeholders, creating a seamless and efficient system that will facilitate trade like never before. “Imagine a Nigeria where businesses can save time and resources, where small enterprises can reach global markets, and where the informal e-commerce sector is brought into the fold, increasing our tax base. This is the Nigeria we are building with the National Single Window Project.
“The benefits of this initiative are immense. The paperless trade alone is estimated to bring an annual economic benefit of around $2.7 billion .
“Countries like Singapore, Korea, Kenya, and Saudi Arabia have already seen significant improvements in trade efficiency after implementing single-window systems.
“It is time for Nigeria to join their ranks and reap the rewards of a streamlined and decentralised trade process.
“We cannot afford to lose an estimated 4 billion dollars annually to red tape, bureaucracy, delays, and corruption at our ports.
“The National Single Window Project will address these issues headlong, preventing revenue leakage and facilitating effective trade. By doing so, we will create a more transparent, secure, and business-friendly environment that will attract investment and spur economic growth.
“The implementation of the National Single Window Project will not be an overnight process, I know. It requires dedication, collaboration, and a phased approach. But I assure you, my fellow brothers and sisters, that we are fully committed to seeing this project through.
“We will work tirelessly to ensure its success by engaging all partner agencies and stakeholders to create a system that works for every one of us.
“Moreover, the National Single Window Project is not just about Nigeria; by linking our system with those of other African nations, we will expedite cargo movement and optimise inter-Africa trade.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to regional integration and our belief in the power of collaboration.”
Tinubu pointed out that the inauguration of the steering committee marked the beginning of “an era of unyielding commitment to prosperity, efficiency, and endless possibilities.”
“The national single window is not just a project; it is a symbol of our determination to build a better future for ourselves and generations to come,” he added.
The President called on Nigerians to embrace the initiative with open arms, adding: “Let us work together as one nation to make the National Single Window a resounding success.
“Let us show the world that Nigeria is ready to take its rightful place as one of the leaders in global trade. Together, we will build a Nigeria that is stronger, more prosperous, and more united than ever before. The national single window is our gateway to that future. And I am honoured to lead us on this transformative journey.”
To the committee members, he said: “Dismantle all block webs along your way. I will be ready to listen to conversations, your discoveries and any problem-solving areas that will make the single window a big success.
“You are building a legacy and a country that is yours, mine, and that of future generations will benefit from.
“You have this great opportunity. It’s a bold endeavour that will etch your names in gold.”
FIRS Chairman Adedeji commended President Tinubu for spearheading the initiative.
He added that the implementation of the project would address revenue leakage, enhance trade efficiency, and boost economic growth.
Adedeji said: “The heavy costs, delays, and inefficiencies at our ports has been a constant burden. It is estimated that a staggering $4m annually is lost due to these inefficiencies.”
NPA Managing Director Bello Koko explained that the initiative would drastically reduce the amount of paperwork involved in transactions for import and export as information would be shared through a unified platform among the relevant government agencies.
He said: “For clearance, the target is actually 24 hours. Of course, we know what is obtainable in neighbouring countries; it’s 48 to 72hours, but our target is 24 hours.
“As for the number of forms, importers/ exporters fill out 20, 30 or 40 printed forms but now, digitally, they fill out a form that has 2, 3, or 4 pages.”
The Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode, next in line to produce the new Awujale of Ijebuland, Ogun State, has directed popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, to complete the family’s royal lineage data form to establish his legitimate membership in the ruling house.
The Chairman of the ruling house and former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Abdulateef Owoyemi, told our correspondence on Saturday that only bonafide members of the family would be allowed to participate in the selection process.
Ayinde, in a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, Ijebu-Ode, announced his interest in the stool.
The Fuji icon described himself as a “bonafide son” of the ruling house, adding that his candidacy aligns with Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
The letter went viral on social media on Friday, sparking reactions from members of the public.
However, Owoyemi explained that the Olori Omooba of Ijebu land had been directed to complete the Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form.
He stressed that the form, which requires contenders to trace their genealogy back seven generations, ensures that only genuine princes from the family can participate, thereby blocking “strangers” from claiming the throne.
He said, “The first step for anyone interested in contesting for the Awujale throne is to declare their lineage by filling the standard Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form. Once confirmed as a legitimate member of the ruling house, they can then apply for the expression of interest form.
“We have told him, just like everyone else interested in the Awujale throne, that the first step is to declare his lineage. He will do this by completing the royal lineage data form, showing his full name, which parent and grandparent he descends from, and continuing up to seven generations.
“The completed form will be signed and submitted to the head of the ruling house unit of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, who will affirm that he is a genuine member. Only then will the process move forward.”
Although the application window for the throne officially closed on December 5, Owoyemi said KWAM 1 had been given an extension of five days, which would lapse on December 10.
“We won’t shut anybody out of picking the next Awujale, but we must ensure that you are a legitimate member of Fusengbuwa. Every right comes with responsibilities. For a royal family, everyone must prove their legitimacy by completing the royal lineage data form.
“When we receive the form, we will review it meticulously. If clarification is needed, we will contact the applicant. We welcome men of influence who will use their influence to enhance the throne, not to claim it, ensuring that what truly belongs to our family is preserved,” he said.
Owoyemi explained that the ruling house hoped to have a new Awujale by the second or third week of January 2026.
“The local government has given us 14 days to select candidates, which expires on December 18. After that, the kingmakers have seven days to deliberate and choose one candidate, whose name will be forwarded to the governor.
“Legally, the government then has 21 days to conduct background checks and security clearance, allowing for objections or protests. After this period, the State Executive Council will ratify the nominee, and the governor will announce the next Awujale, after which coronation rites will commence.
“So, combining the candidate selection, kingmakers’ deliberation, and legal objection period, we are looking at around 42 days. Therefore, we expect the next Awujale to emerge between the second and third week of January,” Owoyemi said.
The Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode, next in line to produce the new Awujale of Ijebuland, Ogun State, has directed popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, to complete the family’s royal lineage data form to establish his legitimate membership in the ruling house.
The Chairman of the ruling house and former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Abdulateef Owoyemi, told our correspondence on Saturday that only bonafide members of the family would be allowed to participate in the selection process.
Ayinde, in a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, Ijebu-Ode, announced his interest in the stool.
The Fuji icon described himself as a “bonafide son” of the ruling house, adding that his candidacy aligns with Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
The letter went viral on social media on Friday, sparking reactions from members of the public.
However, Owoyemi explained that the Olori Omooba of Ijebu land had been directed to complete the Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form.
He stressed that the form, which requires contenders to trace their genealogy back seven generations, ensures that only genuine princes from the family can participate, thereby blocking “strangers” from claiming the throne.
He said, “The first step for anyone interested in contesting for the Awujale throne is to declare their lineage by filling the standard Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form. Once confirmed as a legitimate member of the ruling house, they can then apply for the expression of interest form.
“We have told him, just like everyone else interested in the Awujale throne, that the first step is to declare his lineage. He will do this by completing the royal lineage data form, showing his full name, which parent and grandparent he descends from, and continuing up to seven generations.
“The completed form will be signed and submitted to the head of the ruling house unit of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, who will affirm that he is a genuine member. Only then will the process move forward.”
Although the application window for the throne officially closed on December 5, Owoyemi said KWAM 1 had been given an extension of five days, which would lapse on December 10.
“We won’t shut anybody out of picking the next Awujale, but we must ensure that you are a legitimate member of Fusengbuwa. Every right comes with responsibilities. For a royal family, everyone must prove their legitimacy by completing the royal lineage data form.
“When we receive the form, we will review it meticulously. If clarification is needed, we will contact the applicant. We welcome men of influence who will use their influence to enhance the throne, not to claim it, ensuring that what truly belongs to our family is preserved,” he said.
Owoyemi explained that the ruling house hoped to have a new Awujale by the second or third week of January 2026.
“The local government has given us 14 days to select candidates, which expires on December 18. After that, the kingmakers have seven days to deliberate and choose one candidate, whose name will be forwarded to the governor.
“Legally, the government then has 21 days to conduct background checks and security clearance, allowing for objections or protests. After this period, the State Executive Council will ratify the nominee, and the governor will announce the next Awujale, after which coronation rites will commence.
“So, combining the candidate selection, kingmakers’ deliberation, and legal objection period, we are looking at around 42 days. Therefore, we expect the next Awujale to emerge between the second and third week of January,” Owoyemi said.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the October 4, 2024 judgment of a Federal High Court in Abuja barring the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (popularly called VIO) from further stopping, impounding, or confiscating vehicles on the road and imposing fines on motorists.
In a judgment on Thursday, a three-member panel of the appellate court resolved the three issues identified for determination against the appellant, the Directorate of Road Traffic Services.
Court warns EFCC boss over non-compliance with order to release 27 wrongly seized houses
Alleged criminal defamation: Court grants FG’s request to shift Natasha’s trial till next year
Read Also: Court strikes out stealing charge against businessman
Justice Oyejoju Oyebiola Oyewumi, who delivered the lead judgment, held that the appeal was without merit. She awarded a cost of N1million against the appellant and in favour of the respondent, a rights activist and public interest attorney, Abubakar Marshal.
President Bola Tinubu has nominated a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as the new Minister of Defence.
The nomination was conveyed in a letter sent to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, announcing Musa as the replacement for Mohammed Badaru, who resigned from the position on Monday due to health reasons.
In his letter to the Senate, the President expressed confidence in Musa’s capacity to lead the defence ministry and strengthen Nigeria’s security framework.
The nomination was confirmed in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The statement added, “General Musa, 58, on December 25, is a distinguished soldier who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. He won the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.
“Born in Sokoto in 1967, General Musa received his primary and secondary education there before attending the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He graduated in 1986 and enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy the same year, earning a Bachelor of Science degree upon graduation in 1991.
“General Musa was commissioned into the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1991 and has since had a distinguished career.
“His appointments include General Staff Officer 1, Training/Operations at HQ 81 Division; Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion; Assistant Director, Operational Requirements, Department of Army Policy and Plans; and Infantry Representative/Member, Training Team, HQ Nigerian Army Armour Corps.
“In 2019, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Training/Operations, Headquarters Infantry Centre and Corps; Commander, Sector 3, Operation Lafiya Dole; and Commander, Sector 3 Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region.
“In 2021, General Musa was appointed Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai. He later became Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps before being appointed Chief of Defence Staff by President Tinubu in 2023.”
Newsthumb had earlier reported that Badaru, who was appointed Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023, cited ill health in his resignation letter.
A statement by Onanuga added that Tinubu had accepted the resignation and thanked him for his service to the nation.
The statement further noted, “President Tinubu will likely inform the Senate of Badaru’s successor later this week.
“His resignation comes amid President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with plans to elaborate on its scope in due course.”
Badaru recently came under criticism following a BBC Hausa interview in which he said some terrorists could not be targeted because their forest hideouts were too dense for bombs to reach.
Stephen Angbulu
With three years of experience, Stephen, The PUNCH correspondent, has been covering Nigeria’s presidency, politics, security, immigration and trafficking in persons
-
news5 years agoUPDATE: #ENDSARS: CCTV footage of Lekki shootings intact – Says Sanwo – Olu
-
lifestyle5 years agoFormer Miss World: Mixed reactions trail Agbani Darego’s looks
-
health5 years agoChairman Agege LG, Ganiyu Egunjobi Receives Covid-19 Vaccines
-
lifestyle4 years agoObateru: Celebrating a Quintessential PR Man at 60
-
health5 years agoUPDATE : Nigeria Records 790 new cases of COVID-19
-
health6 years agoBREAKING: Nigeria confirms 663 new cases of COVID-19
-
entertainment11 months agoAshny Set for Valentine Special and new Album ‘ Femme Fatale’
-
news7 months agoBREAKING: Tinubu swears in new NNPCL Board