NEWS
No better time than now for 24-hr port operations — Ministers, others
From left, Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Marine Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola; chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji; Managing Director, Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho; head, National Single Window (NSW) project secretariat, Mr Tola Fakolade, at the opening of a three-day NSW industry and stakeholders’ forum held at Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday
• It will help realisation of $1 trillion economy by 2031, says FIRS chairman
There can be no better time than now for the take-off of the National Single Window initiative aimed at eliminating bureaucratic delays in export and import processes to boost trade efficiency and enhance economic growth. This was the consensus of stakeholders and industry experts at the opening of a three-day workshop on the presidential initiative called the National Single Window project launched by President Bola Tinubu in April, 2024. The stakeholders, including the Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji, Managing Director, Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho and others are optimistic about the potentiality of the project fast-tracking the realisation of $1 trillion economy. Speaking at the National Single Window forum at Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday, Oyetola said the initiative would significantly reduce the cost of doing business in the country and eliminate sharp practices in trade processes. “As highlighted by the World Bank, the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports can be up to 40 percent higher than in other West African countries due to delays and administrative bottlenecks, leading to an estimated annual revenue loss of ₦2.5 trillion within the business community. “However, the implementation of the Single Window System can enhance efficiency, potentially reducing these costs by at least 25 percent. By streamlining operations, improving transparency, and minimizing delays, the system not only drives cost savings but also strengthens overall trade facilitation. “The cumulative impact across all areas—including reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and greater transparency—ultimately contributes to the overall ease of doing business. “We are advancing multimodal connectivity by improving road, rail, and inland waterway links to and from the ports. These improvements aim to reduce transportation costs, enhance logistics, and boost trade. “For example, the Ministry in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, cleared the age-long Apapa – Tincan – Mile 2 traffic for landside operations and provided tugboats, mooring boats, pilot cutters, bollards, and fenders across all port locations for effective seaside operations. “We maximised crane productivity and ensured a reduced transit time for vessels and trucks. These led to a reduction in both the vessel and truck turn-around times. The vessel turn-around-time went down from an average of seven days to an average of five days, while truck turn-around-time went from an average of 10 days to a few hours. But we are not resting on our oars, as our ultimate goal is to make Nigeria the hub of maritime in West Africa,” the Minister said. In her own address, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Oduwole, stressed that the establishment of a National Single Window system for trade is not merely a policy objective but “a transformative reform that will fundamentally redefine the way trade is conducted across our borders.” “Our single window project will provide a centralized digital platform for traders to submit, process, and access trade-related documentation- eliminating corruption through improved transparency, reducing administrative burdens, and significantlyenhancing the ease of doing business in Nigeria. “Many of you will recall that in my previous capacities in the Presidency, I havebeen part and parcel of the NSW project since 2016. The time for delivery is now! “Under President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, economic growth and job creation are key priorities. The NSW will play a significant role in achieving these goals,” she said. Also speaking, Minister of State for Finance, Dr Uzoka-Anite, stressed that the initiative would not only enhance ease of doing business in the country but also attract foreign direct investment. “In Indonesia their NSW programme was launched in 2007 to simplify trade, and since then they have achieved significant reduced clearance time. The average time for cargo clearance at ports dropped from seven days to just three days, traders saved millions of dollars annually through reduced administrative costs and delays. “In 2014 Vietnam introduced its NSW as a part of broader trade facilitation reforms. The programme enhanced trade efficiency by streamlining interaction with over 20 government agencies, reducing paperwork, and manual processes. “This in turn led to improved compliance and led to increased customs revenue. This ease of trading facilitated by their NSW helped Vietnam increase exports, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture. Such a similar impact would be significant for Nigeria as we continue to build our foreign reserves and strengthen the Naira. “Here in Africa Rwanda established its NSW in 2012 to promote regional and international trade which has since resulted in speedier border crossing times which decreased by 50 percent thus boosting the movement of goods in Rwanda. “The NSW reforms contributed to Rwanda becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa and improved Rwanda’s trade within the East African Community (EAC),” the Minister said. According to the FIRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, the project would contribute hugely to the realization of a $1 trillion economy by 2031 as envisioned by President Tinubu. “The National Single Window project represents a pivotal stride in Nigeria’s journey towards economic transformation. For too long, Nigeria’s trade facilitation processes have been hampered by a complex web of bureaucratic hurdles, characterized by cumbersome and inefficient procedures, leading to significant delays at the ports, increased costs of doing business, and a substantial erosion of Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global marketplace. “This has resulted in substantial revenue losses to the country, reduction in foreign direct investments, and hindered the full realization of our nation’s economic potential. “I believe by establishing an integrated platform that seamlessly connects all the critical actors- seaports, airports, free trade zones, government agencies, financial institutions, and the private sector – we are set to revolutionise the way we conduct international trade.” “Now is the moment for Nigeria to establish itself as a leading trade hub on the African continent by implementing a robust and efficient National Single Window system,” Adedeji said. Comptroller General of the Nigeria Custom Service, Bashir Adeniyi, who was represented, said the concept was not new to Nigeria as similar efforts had been made in the past, suggesting ways to overcome the challenged that stunted similar efforts in the past. “Over the years, we have witnessed various efforts aimed at integrating government agencies, streamlining processes, and fostering efficiency in trade facilitation. “However, these attempts have been fraught with challenges, ranging from fragmented technological systems and institutional silos to misaligned stakeholder expectations and inadequate physical a n d technological infrastructure. “While these obstacles have slowed our progress, they have also provided invaluable lessons that shape the roadmap for future s u c c e s s. “To succeed, we must embrace a singular purpose backed by unwaveringgovernmental resolve, ensuring that the Single Window is not perceived as the solemandate but as a national strategy supported by all stakeholders, including theprivate sector, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies. “The centrality of Customs in this ecosystem is undeniable, but success requires a symbiotic relationship where each stakeholder plays its part with precision and commitment,” he said. Managing Director of NPA, Dr Dantsoho, emphasised the need for all stakeholders to work in unity to achieve the goal of the project. He referenced the one stop shop initiative as demonstrating the possibility for government agencies to collaborate and work in harmony with zero tolerance for delays in service delivery and timely interventions without bottle necks. Speaking earlier, the Head of NSW Secretariat, Mr. Tola Fakolade, said the project will simplify the ways things are being done, adding that NSW was first implemented in Singapore and also used in Djibouti, Kenya and others and where it recorded successes. Fakolade said the first phase of the project would start this year with training and testing, saying his office expects cooperation from all stakeholders.
NEWS
EID EL-ADHA 2026: Governor Dauda Lawal Urges Increased Prayers for Peace, Hails Return of Displaced Communities
As Muslims across the world celebrate Eid al-Adha 2026 yesterday, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has called on the faithful to intensify prayers for lasting peace in the state and Nigeria at large. The governor made the appeal in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, ahead of the Eid prayers.
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is observed annually by Muslims on the 10th day of Dhulhijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival commemorates the unwavering obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), who was willing to sacrifice his son Isma’il in submission to Allah’s (SWT) command an act replaced by divine intervention with a ram.
In his address, Governor Lawal reflected on the spiritual significance of the season, noting that the sacrificial rite not only honours Prophet Ibrahim’s submission but also forms an essential part of the Hajj rituals for pilgrims currently in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
“I felicitate with the Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha 2026,” the governor said. “The sacrifice performed during Eid is symbolic of Prophet Ibrahim’s submission and is also part of the Hajj rites for pilgrims.”
The governor specifically called on residents of Zamfara, particularly those undertaking the pilgrimage, to remain steadfast in prayers for the state and the nation.
“We have made significant progress in the fight against banditry, which is why dispersed communities are now returning to their homes,” Lawal stated. He cited a recent milestone: “Last week, we successfully returned thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral community of Fegin Kanawa Village in Gusau Local Government Area after over a year of displacement.”
According to officials, the village had been abandoned due to repeated bandit attacks, forcing residents to seek refuge in overcrowded camps or host communities. The successful return of the IDPs marks one of the administration’s key achievements in its ongoing security and reconstruction efforts.
Governor Lawal expressed gratitude to Allah for enabling the state to witness what he described as a “historic” achievement the airlift of pilgrims from Gusau International Airport, which has now resumed full operations after previous disruptions.
“We are committed to ensuring the safe return of all displaced persons to their homes. Such successes are only possible due to our collective prayers. I urge us to pray more, especially during sacred religious festivals,” he added.
The governor concluded his message with warm wishes: “I wish everyone a peaceful Eid celebration.”
Following the broadcast, Governor Lawal joined thousands of worshippers at the Gusau Central Eid prayer ground, where he observed the two-unit Eid prayer and listened to the customary sermon (khutbah). Security was notably heightened across the state, with checkpoints and patrols deployed to prevent any attacks during the celebrations.
Zamfara, like much of Nigeria’s North-West region, has faced years of insecurity fueled by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. The governor’s emphasis on prayer reflects a broader strategy that combines military offensives, community dialogue, and spiritual advocacy to restore normalcy.
At Wema Bank, we have spent the last few years reimagining what Children’s Day can look like for Nigerian children.What started as a celebration has evolved into an intentional platform designed to build confidence, encourage leadership, promote financial literacy and create meaningful opportunities for children across different age groups.This year, we have raised the bar even higher. At Wema Bank’s Children’s Day Special Event held on Monday, May 25, 2026, our One-Day MD/CEO, Chinmamanda Diamond Ozoakpata, used her first official act in office to unveil a series of new initiatives designed to reward, educate and empower children through our Royal Kiddies account and ALAT Xplore platform.From year-long cash rewards and celebrations of academic excellence to financial literacy materials and STEM challenges, here are the new incentives that were announced and how to qualify:1. Birthday Cash Gift (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema bank is putting real money behind milestone birthdays. Active Royal Kiddies account holders turning 5 will receive ₦5,000, while those turning 10 will receive ₦10,000 automatically, as a birthday cash gift. The initiative runs from May 2026 to May 2027. Importantly, active account holders who already turned 5 or 10 before May 2026 this year will also receive their reward this month.To qualify: Your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account and be turning (or have turned) age 5 or 10 within the qualifying window.2. ₦100,000 Reward for Top Common Entrance Students (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)In a move that directly ties financial reward to academic achievement, Wema Bank will reward the top 100 students in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) with ₦100,000 each. This initiative commences in June 2026.To qualify: Your child must be among the top 100 performers in the NCEE and hold a Royal Kiddies account.3. Financial Literacy Book Launch – Money Adventures (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema Bank officially launched Money Adventures, a financial literacy book created for children aged 6 and above, at the Children’s Day event. Designed to make money conversations simpler and more engaging for young readers, the book introduces children to foundational concepts around saving, money management and responsible financial habits in a fun, age-appropriate way. To qualify: To receive a copy of this book, your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account or have their Royal Kiddies account newly activated.4. Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge (ALAT Xplore Account Holders)The Bank also unveiled the Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge. Designed for secondary school students aged 13–17, the programme will run across six schools nationwide with existing STEM programmes. Through hands-on STEM competitions and school engagements, the initiative aims to promote innovation, technology awareness, financial literacy and responsible savings culture. There will also be monetary prizes to be won at the end of the challenge.To qualify: Your child must be an ALAT Xplore customer, aged 13–17, and attend one of the participating schools with an active STEM programme.Over the last four years, Wema Bank has consistently treated Children’s Day as more than a calendar moment. From the One-Day MD/CEO initiative to school tours, leadership experiences and child-focused financial literacy campaigns, the Bank has continued to expand how it supports children meaningfully.Yet, this is the first time the bank has included a Children’s Day initiative that runs for an entire year. Combine that with a six-figure academic reward, a published financial literacy resource, and a nationwide school tour, and it becomes clear: this is the most comprehensive, most impactful package of benefits Wema Bank has ever delivered to its youngest customers. It signals a growing commitment by Wema Bank to create experiences for children that extend far beyond celebration and leave a lasting impact long after Children’s Day is over.
In a decisive move aimed at alleviating the economic burdens of retired public servants, Zamfara State Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal, has officially approved increased monthly pension payments for all former workers from both state and local government offices. The approval follows an extensive financial review of retirees’ living conditions, with particular attention to those in lower-income brackets who have been disproportionately affected by the prevailing cost-of-living crisis.The decision was precipitated by the findings and recommendations of a special committee empaneled to evaluate the welfare situation of pensioners across the state. The committee’s report highlighted acute financial distress among aging retirees and called for immediate remedial action. In response, the state government has authorized a substantive upward adjustment in monthly pension stipends.This increment aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s Minimum Wage Act of 2024, which explicitly recommended an additional monthly sum of at least N32,000 for pensioners. Governor Lawal has opted for full implementation of this advisory for all retired state and local government employees a policy intervention expected to benefit thousands of households across Zamfara. The state government has subsequently issued binding directives to all relevant agencies to ensure the expeditious and seamless disbursement of the enhanced payments without procedural delays.Speaking on the development, the Honorable Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Muhammad Dantawasa, characterized the policy as a tangible demonstration of Governor Lawal’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for both active and former government workers. According to the Commissioner, the administration operates on the principle that dignified retirement includes access to basic necessities and financial comfort. Beneficiaries across all local government areas have been assured of prompt payment once implementation commences.
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