The F

ederal Government has approved the reopening of the Tsamiya land border in Kebbi State for trans-border trade, with strict security and compliance measures in place, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has announced.

Adeniyi disclosed this on Saturday during an interactive session with stakeholders—including exporters, transporters and onion traders—in Kebbi State, where concerns were raised over the prolonged closure of the border.

He assured stakeholders that the Federal Government was mindful of the economic hardship caused by the restrictions, explaining that sustained diplomatic, security and customs engagements had been ongoing with neighbouring countries.

“We are not unconcerned about what is happening. Behind the scenes, all stakeholders have been working round the clock to resolve these challenges,” the Customs boss said.

According to Adeniyi, Nigeria recently hosted an urgent delegation from the Niger Republic Customs Service and members of its Chamber of Commerce in Abuja to fast-track solutions to the trade bottlenecks.

He attributed the decision to reopen the Tsamiya corridor to strong political will from President Bola Tinubu and cooperation from neighbouring governments.

“I am happy to convey the approval of Mr President to all stakeholders that the Tsamiya border will now be reopened for services,” he announced.

Adeniyi stressed that the reopening would be guided by clearly defined security protocols to prevent criminal activities and the exploitation of trade routes.

“There are criminals and non-state actors who may want to take advantage of trade corridors. We must facilitate trade without compromising national security,” he warned.

He further disclosed that the Nigeria Customs Service would deploy ICT-based system interconnectivity with customs administrations in Benin and Niger Republics to ensure seamless declarations, monitoring and transparency in cross-border trade.

The CG also issued a stern warning against diversion of goods in transit, stating that any truck found outside approved transit corridors would be seized.

“We have prosecuted operators and suspended officers for such violations. We will not hesitate to take criminal action against anyone who breaks the law,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of inclusive development, Adeniyi noted that strengthening border communities would enhance security and cooperation.

“Border communities must feel the impact of the prosperity passing through their areas. That sense of belonging strengthens national security,” he added.

He commended Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, for prioritising border communities, describing him as “people-friendly and security-conscious.”

Reacting to the development, Governor Idris expressed satisfaction with the reopening of the border for trade, assuring that the state government would work closely with Customs and other security agencies.

He also pledged the state’s support for the families of slain customs officers, in line with the administration’s established procedures.

Meanwhile, a senior officer of the Benin Republic Customs Service, speaking on behalf of his delegation, commended Nigeria for reopening the trade corridor and reaffirmed commitment to bilateral cooperation.

“We work hand-in-hand with Nigerian Customs to facilitate safe and secure trade. We are pleased with the leadership of the Nigerian Customs Service and we will support this initiative fully,” he said.