The Nigeria Customs Service has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Kebbi State Government to implement President Bola Tinubu’s approved transit corridor for goods destined for Niger Republic via Benin Republic. The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale-Adeniyi, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, in Birnin Kebbi. He explained that the initiative is designed to eliminate transit bottlenecks, enhance national security and guarantee cargo clearance within 48 hours through the use of advanced technology to prevent diversion.
According to Adewale-Adeniyi, President Tinubu has authorised the movement of transit trucks to Niger Republic through Benin Republic and Kebbi State, with strict monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure goods reach their intended destinations. He warned that operators who breach transit rules would face severe penalties, noting that violations could create non-tariff barriers and damage trust between countries.
The customs chief, who was warmly received by Governor Idris and two former governors despite the short notice of his visit, praised Kebbi State’s spirit of unity and its strategic relevance to Nigeria’s security framework. He described Kebbi as historically significant, referencing the Gwandu Emirate and its influence across Nigeria and neighbouring Benin and Niger Republics, adding that developments in the state often have nationwide implications.
Adeniyi said the engagement was aimed at deepening cooperation on the movement of transit goods, strengthening information sharing, tackling border security issues and ensuring legitimate trade contributes meaningfully to economic growth. He further disclosed that consignments from Apapa ports and Nigerian airports meant for neighbouring countries would be processed and transported within 48 hours without jeopardising security or economic interests.The Comptroller-General also highlighted that criminal activities were often driven by networks involved in drug trafficking, smuggling and arms proliferation, stressing the need for strong inter-agency collaboration to outpace such threats. He commended Kebbi State for its effective coordination among security agencies, supported by the state government through logistical assistance.
Under the new arrangement, trucks using the corridor will pay a nominal fee for infrastructure upkeep in transit zones, particularly along the Tsamiya Corridor in Bagudu Local Government Area. He added that the Customs Service would simplify documentation processes and eliminate obstacles along key routes, including the Illela–Sokoto–Kamba–Niger Republic axis, as well as corridors linking Apapa ports and airports to neighbouring countries. Responding, Governor Nasir Idris assured that Kebbi State was prepared to work closely with the Federal Government to ensure the smooth implementation of the initiative.He said the state was confident in President Tinubu’s commitment to policies he approves and pledged to provide the required social amenities, infrastructure and well-maintained roads to support the operations.
Source : https://thesun.ng/
