APM Terminals Nigeria, a prominent terminal operator, has reiterated its unwavering dedication to streamlining trade operations at the port and actively supporting the National Single Window (NSW) initiative, a critical project aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s trade landscape. This commitment was underscored during a meeting between Frederik Klinke, the CEO of APMT Nigeria, and the leadership of the NSW project. The NSW project, spearheaded by the Federal Government, seeks to establish a centralized electronic trade platform that will harmonize and integrate data from various government agencies, thereby simplifying trade procedures for importers and exporters. This initiative holds the promise of significantly reducing bureaucracy, enhancing efficiency, and bolstering transparency within the Nigerian port sector.
APM Terminals recognizes the pivotal role of digitalization and efficiency in fostering seamless global trade. The company views the NSW as a transformative project that aligns perfectly with its mission to optimize port operations and facilitate trade. By leveraging its advanced technological infrastructure and expertise, APMT aims to collaborate closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the NSW. This collaborative approach will contribute to creating a more streamlined and user-friendly trade environment, stimulating further investment and growth in the Nigerian port sector. APM Terminals sees the NSW as a crucial catalyst for attracting additional investments in the Nigerian port sector, complementing its own investment plans for the Lagos port.
The NSW has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and transparency of trade processes in Nigeria. By consolidating data and documentation from various government agencies onto a single platform, it eliminates the need for importers and exporters to navigate multiple systems, saving valuable time and resources. This streamlined approach reduces the risk of errors and delays associated with manual processes, ultimately improving the overall ease of doing business at the port. Moreover, the centralized nature of the NSW fosters greater transparency and accountability, allowing for better tracking and monitoring of cargo movements and trade transactions.
APM Terminals has already made significant strides in digitalizing its own operations, demonstrating its commitment to embracing technological advancements to improve efficiency and customer experience. The company’s fully digitalized system enables customers to track shipments, process payments, and manage their Terminal Delivery Orders through a user-friendly online platform. This seamless integration of digital tools empowers customers with greater control and visibility over their cargo, streamlining their interactions with the terminal and contributing to a more efficient trade process. Alignment with the NSW initiative will further augment these digital capabilities, optimizing the flow of information and minimizing the need for physical interactions.
The NSW team, inaugurated last year, is determined to learn from past challenges and ensure the successful implementation of this pivotal project. Previous attempts to establish a national single window system encountered obstacles such as fragmented technological systems, institutional bottlenecks, and inadequate technological infrastructure among government agencies. Recognizing these past hurdles, the NSW team is committed to addressing these issues proactively and fostering stronger collaboration among all stakeholders. This collaborative approach, coupled with advancements in technology and a greater understanding of the challenges involved, positions the NSW project for success.
Olayinka Akinlade, Head of Government Relations at APMT Apapa, highlighted the company’s significant investments in automation and its advanced digitalized customer interface. These investments reflect APMT’s commitment to providing efficient and customer-centric services. By aligning with the NSW initiative, the company aims to further streamline processes, reduce physical interactions, and enhance the overall ease of doing business at the port. The director of the NSW project, Tola Fakolade, expressed appreciation for APM Terminals’ openness and willingness to collaborate, acknowledging the company’s valuable contribution to the project’s success. The NSW team is committed to simplifying trade facilitation processes and learning from past challenges to ensure the project’s success.
