From Anthony Nwachukwu, Lagos
Towards improving trade between both countries, a Nigerian government delegation has held an inter-ministerial meeting with counterparts from the Benin Republic on the reopening and operationalisation of the Segbana-Tsamiya border post in Kebbi State.
The Nigerian team comprised the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, Director of Home Finance at the Ministry of Finance, Ali Mohammed, and the Director-General, Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), Dr. Dakorinama Alabo George, among others.
Featuring the presentation of feasibility studies on the expected benefits and outcomes of the border reopening, including increased trade and potential challenges, the meeting focused on the logistics, security measures and economic impact, as well as timelines and necessary infrastructure for a smooth operation.
Speaking at the event, CGC Adeniyi said the meeting was intended to improve the free flow of trade and commercial activities between both countries through Nigeria’s northern borders, to enhance both nation’s economy, according to a statement from the National Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abdullahi Maiwada.
Adeniyi disclosed that in the past six weeks, within this framework of collaboration for closer working and economic relations, “we have been working with our colleagues from the Benesse Customs Administration to ensure that we bring the economy together through easy border crossing with goods.”
On her part, the Director-General of the Benin Customs Administration, Adidjatou Hassan, said that reopening the border will strengthen trade activities between both countries’ citizens.
According to her, “this development is expected to increase economic cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations. We are committed to sustaining our seamless collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service while enhancing security and trade activities at our borders.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, noted that the forum was formed on the directives of both countries’ governments to strengthen social and economic interaction and expand trade and commercial ties between their citizens.
Similarly, Governor Idris of Kebbi State commended the move to reinvigorate free trade and transportation of goods to various destinations within the two countries, adding that “the state has maintained good neighbourliness with the Republic of Benin on economic activities and social interaction.”
While further deliberations would address disputes and operational framework, the delegation agreed on a follow-up meeting in June 2024 to monitor progress and address outstanding issues, and for a bi-national committee meeting, while sub-committees would submit reports within two weeks to perfect strategies for the border reopening.
