Nigerian Govt approves reopening of Kebbi border for regional trade
Federal Government Approves Reopening of Tsamiya Border for Trade
The Federal Government has granted approval for the reopening of the Tsamiya land border in Kebbi State for trans-border trade, with stringent security and compliance measures in place.
Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, made the announcement on Saturday during a session with exporters, transporters, and commodity traders in Kebbi State. He stated that the decision followed consultations among security, diplomatic, and customs authorities from Nigeria and neighboring countries.
Adeniyi noted that officials from the Niger Republic Customs Service and its Chamber of Commerce recently engaged with Nigerian authorities to resolve issues affecting trade.
The reopening of the border was authorized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of broader efforts to facilitate trade while maintaining national security.
“The Tsamiya border has been approved for reopening for trade and related services,” Adeniyi said. He emphasized that operations will be governed by established security protocols to prevent criminal activities. The Nigeria Customs Service plans to implement ICT-based interconnectivity with customs administrations in Niger and the Benin Republic to enhance monitoring and transparency.
The Comptroller-General warned against the diversion of goods, stating that any truck found outside designated transit corridors would be confiscated, with offenders facing prosecution.
Adeniyi also highlighted the importance of developing border communities, asserting that economic inclusion is vital for fostering cooperation and stability.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the announcement and pledged the state government’s cooperation with customs and security agencies to ensure smooth operations. A representative from the Benin Republic Customs Service called the reopening a positive development and reiterated their commitment to ensuring safe and regulated trade.
Stakeholders, including exporters and traders, expressed their support for the initiative, describing it as beneficial for regional trade and non-oil exports. Isa Aliyu, President of the National Onion Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN), emphasized the corridor’s importance for onion farmers and traders due to the perishable nature of the commodity. He warned that extended border closures could lead to increased reliance on illegal trade routes, adversely affecting government revenue and regulatory oversight.
Officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser assured ongoing collaboration with customs authorities and registered agents to uphold compliance and security along the corridor.
