Nigeria Customs Service Fosters Trade Facilitation

By Lod Onyeji

The Ogun I Command of the Nigeria Customs Service recently hosted a high-level stakeholder engagement session aimed at enhancing trade facilitation along the Idiroko-Igolo border corridor. The event brought together key players in cross-border trade, including representatives from the Benin Republic Customs Authority, trade associations, and business leaders.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Comptroller GA Otunla emphasized the significance of Nigeria-Benin economic ties, stating that the economic relationship between the two countries is vital to bilateral engagements and the broader West African sub-region. He acknowledged existing challenges hindering trade, including border inefficiencies, regulatory bottlenecks, and security concerns.

Identifying Solutions

The dialogue centered on improving customs cooperation and streamlining business processes to foster the smooth flow of legitimate trade. Stakeholders highlighted several impediments affecting business activities, including multiple checkpoints, poor road infrastructure, and inadequate space for handling large volumes of containers.

Infrastructure Development

Participants inspected a one-hectare site provided by the Command, capable of accommodating over 30 containers, marking an infrastructural step forward toward easing cargo flow. Stakeholders expressed optimism that with the measures and assurances provided by the Command, Idiroko would soon experience a resurgence in legitimate cross-border trade.

Commitment to Action

Comptroller Otunla reaffirmed his commitment to immediate action, aligning with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. He pledged to utilize all powers within his office to implement the resolutions reached during the engagement, promoting lawful trade and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Benin Republic.