NIPOST Launches Automated Payment Platform to Ease International Parcel Clearance
The Nigerian Postal Service has launched an Automated Payment Solution for international parcels to improve delivery speed and transparency.
The platform integrates Paystack, Sendbox, and Messenger for seamless digital processing.
The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has introduced a new Automated Payment Solution for inbound international parcels, aimed at cutting delivery delays, promoting transparency, and simplifying customs payment for Nigerians involved in cross-border trade.
The launch, held in Abuja on Thursday, was supervised by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Rafiu Adeladan. Tijani said the platform reflects how government institutions can operate effectively when they embrace innovation and collaborate with private partners.
He explained that the partnership between NIPOST, Paystack, Sendbox, and Messenger demonstrates a modern, citizen-focused approach to public service delivery. According to him, inefficiencies in postal systems have long discouraged trade and e-commerce growth in the country.
“When citizens lose time and money navigating inefficient systems, we all lose as a nation,” Tijani said. “This launch represents a tangible solution and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a digital economy powered by technology and innovation.”
He added that Paystack will handle secure customs duty payments, Sendbox will enable parcel tracking, while Messenger will manage last-mile delivery to ensure efficiency and speed.
Postmaster General of the Federation, Tola Odeyemi, described the innovation as “a new chapter” for NIPOST, saying it will allow customers to receive real-time updates, make online payments, and get doorstep delivery.
“This is not just convenience; it’s about trust, accountability, and efficiency,” she said. “We are shifting from being a service provider to becoming a solution provider.”
Odeyemi also revealed that the system allows the government to receive customs and postal revenue in real-time, replacing the previous monthly remittance model. The next phase, she added, will extend to exports through the upcoming TradePost Project, aimed at boosting Nigeria’s participation in global e-commerce.
During a live demonstration, NIPOST officials showed how the automated process could reduce delivery time by up to five days through faster digital customs assessments and online payments. Customers will now receive notifications and payment links via SMS, email, or WhatsApp before their parcels arrive.
Paystack co-founder, Shola Akinlade, praised the initiative, describing it as “a proud moment” that shows government projects can move with startup-level speed when collaboration works. Sendbox and Messenger executives also commended NIPOST for embracing innovation and improving the country’s logistics system.
Established in 1987, NIPOST has long faced criticism for inefficiency and bureaucratic delays. The new payment platform is part of its ongoing digital transformation, aligning with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Digital Economy Agenda to modernize public services and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness.
