Customs reopen Kebbi border to boost trade

Customs reopen Kebbi border to boost trade

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security while facilitating legitimate trade following the Federal Government’s approval to reopen the Tsamiya Border Corridor in Kebbi State. This was disclosed during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held at the Kebbi State Government House, which brought together security agencies, traditional rulers, economic operators, and international customs representatives.

The reopening of the Tsamiya Corridor is aimed at improving transit trade along Nigeria’s north-west border while maintaining strict compliance with security and customs regulations. The engagement served as a platform to review practical strategies for enhancing border governance and ensuring seamless movement of legitimate goods, particularly along key land routes and the River Niger corridor that links Nigeria with neighbouring countries.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stressed the importance of inter-agency cooperation and cross-border collaboration in tackling security threats and transit trade challenges. He noted that the NCS is working closely with customs authorities in the Republic of Niger and the Republic of Benin, with the backing of the governments of Nigeria and Benin, to resolve long-standing transit trade issues and curb the diversion of goods in transit.

Adeniyi explained that the Tsamiya Corridor will operate under enhanced monitoring measures, including the use of ICT-based tracking systems, improved profiling of licensed customs agents, and strict surveillance of goods. He warned that trucks deviating from approved routes would be seized and offenders prosecuted, underscoring the Service’s zero-tolerance approach to violations.

The Comptroller-General commended the Kebbi State Government for supporting security coordination and acknowledged the contributions of retired customs officers from the state. In response, Governor Nasir Idris reaffirmed the state’s commitment to providing logistical support, infrastructure, and community engagement to ensure effective border security and promote development in border communities.

 Punch, 9 Feb 2026