New digital platform integrates Paystack, Sendbox, and Messenger to simplify customs payments and fast-track international deliveries….
The Federal Government has launched the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) Automated Payment Solution, a digital system designed to simplify customs payments for inbound international parcels, eliminate long queues at post offices, and enhance transparency in postal operations across the country.
Unveiled on Thursday in Abuja, the innovation marks a major milestone in NIPOST’s ongoing transformation drive under the supervision of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Rafiu Adeladan, Tijani said the platform embodies what a reformed public service should look like one driven by technology, innovation, and collaboration with the private sector.
“Today’s gathering is more than a product launch; it is a statement of intent. This is what a modern public service should look like — a government that co-creates solutions with innovators, technology partners, and citizens,” Tijani said.
He added that the collaboration between NIPOST and private-sector partners Paystack, Sendbox, and Messenger demonstrates how digital partnerships can improve efficiency and restore public confidence in government institutions.
Solving Long-Standing Customer Frustrations
For years, Nigerians have complained about delays, hidden charges, and cumbersome customs clearance procedures when receiving international parcels.
Tijani acknowledged these challenges, saying they hinder not just customer satisfaction but also trade, e-commerce, and small business competitiveness.
“When citizens lose time and money navigating inefficient systems, we all lose as a nation. This launch represents a tangible solution and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s priorities for a digital economy powered by public digital infrastructure,” the minister said.
Under the new system, Paystack provides the secure payment gateway for customs duties, Sendbox enables real-time parcel tracking, while Messenger handles last-mile delivery to customers’ doorsteps.
“Technology is not just about efficiency; it’s about dignity. When we make life simpler for citizens, we restore their faith in government. Together, these partners have built a system that reduces friction, builds trust, and turns government into a platform for innovation,” Tijani noted.
‘A New Chapter for NIPOST’
In her remarks, Postmaster General of the Federation, Tola Odeyemi, described the launch as “a new chapter” in NIPOST’s history, one that blends legacy postal operations with fintech and digital innovation.
“Customers can now receive real-time notifications once customs duties are assessed, make secure online payments, and have their parcels delivered directly to their homes or offices,” she said.
The platform integrates Paystack for payment processing, Sendbox for tracking, and Messenger alongside NIPOST’s EMS for delivery, creating a seamless, end-to-end logistics ecosystem that is transparent and accountable.
Odeyemi, who oversees over 1,300 NIPOST offices nationwide, said the current phase focuses on inbound shipments but will soon extend to exports through the upcoming TradePost Project, aimed at boosting Nigeria’s cross-border e-commerce participation.
“This is not just about convenience; it’s about trust, accountability, and efficiency. We are shifting from being a service provider to a solution provider,” she said.
She further explained that the new system allows for real-time remittance of postal and customs revenues to the government, replacing the previous monthly remittance model.
“For the government, this means transparency and efficiency. For customers, it means speed, convenience, and confidence,” Odeyemi added.
Cutting Delivery Time by Five Days
During a live demonstration, NIPOST officials showed how the automated platform would reduce parcel delivery time by up to five days, thanks to early digital customs notifications and instant online payment options.
Under the old process, customers had to physically visit post offices to check customs assessments and make payments before collecting their parcels. Now, they will receive electronic notifications and payment links via SMS, email, or WhatsApp before their packages arrive.
NIPOST will serve as a customs clearance agent, managing the logistics and payment process while charging a minimal handling fee.
Private Partners Applaud Collaboration
Paystack co-founder and CEO, Shola Akinlade, praised the collaboration, describing it as proof that government agencies can deliver results with startup-level speed and precision.
“Honestly, I thought this project would take two years because it was NIPOST. But the team surprised us. This has been one of the smoothest projects we’ve ever done. It shows that things can work in Nigeria,” Akinlade said.
Sendbox CEO, Olusegun Afolahan, commended NIPOST’s openness to innovation, saying the partnership reflects a new kind of public-private synergy.
“As a Nigerian, I never imagined this day would come. The NIPOST team has shown that the public sector can speak the language of technology,” Afolahan said.
Messenger co-founder, Essien Etuk, also hailed the partnership, calling it a major step toward fixing inefficiencies in Nigeria’s last-mile delivery system.
“For the first time, we’re seeing progress that will mean happier customers, faster deliveries, and more revenue for both NIPOST and the digital economy,” he said.
Driving Nigeria’s Digital Public Service Reform
Founded in 1987, NIPOST has long faced criticism over inefficiency and bureaucracy. However, under its current leadership, the agency has embarked on sweeping reforms to reposition itself as a key player in Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Automated Payment Solution aligns with the Renewed Hope Digital Economy Agenda of the Tinubu administration, which prioritises digital public infrastructure, fintech integration, and private-sector collaboration to modernise public services and strengthen national competitiveness.
About the Author
