By Sabiu Abdullahi
A high-level delegation from the Federal Government of Nigeria met with counterparts from the Benin Republic on May 21, 2024, to discuss the reopening of the Segbana-Tsamiya border post in Kebbi State.
The meeting aimed to fast-track the operationalisation of the border post, which is expected to enhance regional integration and boost economic activities.
The Nigerian delegation included the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, and other dignitaries.
The Benin Republic delegation was led by the Director General of the Benin Customs Administration, Adidjatou Hassan. During the meeting, the delegations discussed comprehensive issues surrounding the border post’s opening, including logistics, security measures, and economic impact.
Feasibility studies were presented, outlining expected benefits such as increased trade and potential challenges that might arise.
The deliberation also included setting timelines and identifying necessary infrastructure to ensure a smooth operation.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, indicated the importance of engagement between the two countries to enhance the economy.
“To ensure closer working and economic relations between Nigeria and the Benin Republic, we have been working with our colleagues from the Beninese Customs Administration to ensure that we bring the economy together through easy border crossing with goods,” he said.
The Director General of the Benin Customs Administration, Adidjatou Hassan, appreciated the move to reopen the border, which will strengthen trade activities and bilateral ties between the two nations.
“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 at our borders and trade activities,” she said.
The meeting concluded with a summary of the key points discussed and a formal statement of commitment from both sides.
An agreement was reached to schedule a follow-up meeting in June 2024 to monitor progress and address any outstanding issues.
A bi-national committee meeting was also agreed upon, with a defined commitment for subcommittees to submit their reports within two weeks to streamline seamless efforts towards border reopening.