Copyright nigerianeye
The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has introduced an automated digital payment solution for inbound international parcels, aimed at eliminating long queues, ensuring transparency, and streamlining customs clearance for individuals and businesses in cross-border trade. The platform was unveiled during a ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, described by NIPOST as a pivotal step in its modernization drive under the oversight of Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. Representing the minister, Permanent Secretary Rafiu Adeladan hailed the initiative as “a living example of how a modern public service should operate, in partnership with innovators, technology, and citizens.” He emphasized the collaboration with private-sector partners Paystack, Sendbox, and Messenger, as a model of citizen-centered governance. “Together, they have built a system that reduces friction, builds trust, and turns government into a platform for innovation,” Tijani stated, adding that the partnership demonstrates what happens “when government institutions stop working in isolation and start working… with citizens at the centre.” The minister acknowledged longstanding frustrations with delays, hidden fees, and inefficiencies at post offices, noting these barriers impede e-commerce, trade, and small business growth in global markets. Export Expansion PlannedTola Odeyemi, Postmaster General of the Federation, called the launch “a new chapter” blending NIPOST’s legacy with fintech innovation. While the current system targets inbound shipments, she announced plans to extend it to exports via the upcoming TradePost project. A key feature, Odeyemi highlighted, is real-time revenue remittance to government coffers. “For the government, this means transparency and efficiency. For customers, it means speed, convenience, and confidence,” she said. Private Sector Applauds Speed, VisionShola Akinlade, Paystack CEO and co-founder, praised the rollout as proof that government agencies can operate with “startup-level speed.” Olusegun Afolahan of Sendbox commended NIPOST’s clarity and openness to innovation, while Essien Etuk of Messenger said the partnership brings “sanity to the last mile” of logistics. “For the first time, we’re seeing progress that will mean happier customers, faster deliveries, and more revenue for both NIPOST and the broader digital economy,” Etuk added. The initiative aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope digital economy agenda, which prioritizes digital public infrastructure and public-private partnerships to modernize services, boost transparency, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
