Africa (Commonwealth Union) – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing cross-border trade between Nigeria and Benin Republic, aiming to foster economic growth and streamline trade processes.
The Ogun 1 Area Comptroller, Mohammed Shuaibu, emphasized this commitment in a statement released by the command’s public relations officer, Chado Zakari, on Friday. Leading a high-level delegation, Shuaibu paid a courtesy visit to the regional director of Plateau Customs in Porto-Novo, Benin Republic, Col. Gado Ibrahim, to reinforce bilateral trade cooperation.
This visit follows an earlier stakeholders’ meeting held at Idiroko, where clearing agents, traders, and business representatives pledged to enhance collaboration and facilitate trade expansion.
Shuaibu noted that the discussions focused on reducing administrative bottlenecks, streamlining trade procedures, and improving customs clearance efficiency. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which promotes seamless movement of goods across African nations.
“I am here today to deepen cooperation and collaboration in line with the policy direction of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi,” Shuaibu stated, affirming NCS’s dedication to fostering mutually beneficial trade relations with its neighbors.
In response, Col. Gado Ibrahim confirmed that Benin Republic authorities had held multiple deliberations on the reopening of the Igolo border. These discussions established specific criteria for resuming full-scale transborder trade, and the Igolo border now meets the necessary requirements for reopening.
“We are eager to strengthen this partnership and explore new opportunities for economic growth and development,” Ibrahim added, promising swift action to facilitate cross-border trade resumption.
The renewed collaboration between Nigeria and Benin Republic’s customs services underscores a shared vision for enhanced regional trade, economic prosperity, and strengthened diplomatic ties. As both nations work toward seamless commerce, businesses and traders stand to benefit from improved trade policies and border operations.
