The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have agreed to deepen their partnership to accelerate intra-African trade through the development of one-stop border posts, regional transit systems, and digital customs solutions. The initiative is aimed at reducing trade barriers, improving border efficiency, and supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The collaboration was announced during a meeting between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and senior officials of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade facilitation and improving cross-border movement of goods across Africa.
A key component of the partnership is the establishment of one-stop border posts, where customs, immigration, and other border clearance procedures are coordinated at a single location. This model is expected to significantly reduce cargo clearance times, lower transportation costs, and eliminate duplication of border inspections, making cross-border trade more efficient.
The two organisations also plan to advance regional transit systems that will simplify the movement of goods between African countries. By harmonising customs procedures and documentation, the initiative aims to improve supply chain efficiency, reduce delays, and encourage greater participation in regional value chains.
Speaking on the partnership, Adeniyi emphasised the importance of leveraging technology and innovation to modernise customs administration. He noted that deploying digital systems, harmonising border procedures, and strengthening customs cooperation across Africa are essential to unlocking the full benefits of the AfCFTA and increasing intra-African trade.
Afreximbank reiterated its commitment to supporting trade-enabling infrastructure and financing initiatives that facilitate commerce across the continent. The bank has continued to invest in projects such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), African Trade Centres, and trade finance programmes aimed at reducing the cost and complexity of doing business across African borders.
Trade experts believe that efficient border management remains one of the most critical factors in improving Africa’s competitiveness. Long delays at border crossings have historically increased logistics costs and reduced the competitiveness of African exports. The adoption of one-stop border posts and integrated customs systems is expected to improve trade efficiency, encourage investment, and strengthen regional economic integration. The partnership aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to expand non-oil exports, improve trade logistics, and position the country as a leading gateway for commerce under the AfCFTA. As African countries continue to remove trade barriers, enhanced customs cooperation is expected to play a vital role in unlocking the full potential of the continent’s single market.
