By Godwin Oritse
The Customs administrations of Nigeria and Niger Republic are currently engaged in discussions to address challenges hampering trade along the Kamba–Tungan Gyado border corridor.
Recall that a trade delegation from the Nigerien Customs (Douanes du Niger) was recently hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service at the Command Headquarters in Abuja to deliberate on emerging issues affecting trade along the corridor, with a view to facilitating legitimate trade, generating revenue and bringing relief to communities on both sides of the border.
In a statement by Mustapha Mubarak, Assistant Superintendent of Customs and Deputy Public Relations Officer of Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, both Customs Area Controller, Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Mahmoud Matawalle Ibrahim; and Comptroller, Abdoulaye Vincent, of Niger Republic amongst other stakeholders decided to work towards forging stronger collaboration between Nigerian and Nigerien Customs, particularly in facilitating trade through the Kamba corridor.
He noted that insecurity along the Burkina Faso and Togo routes, as well as the prevailing diplomatic situation with Benin Republic, had disrupted trade. He therefore appealed for increased legitimate exports through Kamba to boost revenue and ease economic hardship for communities along the corridor and beyond.
Similarly , Comptroller Ibrahim, of the Nigeria Customs welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Nigerien Customs and facilitating legitimate cross-border trade.
He pledged to sensitise stakeholders on Customs procedures and encourage greater use of the Kamba corridor, noting that increased trade would boost revenue, create jobs and improve livelihoods in border communities. He also announced plans to visit the Nigerien Customs Command in Dosso to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and trade facilitation.
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