The Federal Government has approved the reopening of the Tsamiya land border in Kebbi State for trans-border trade, ending months of restrictions and offering renewed hope to exporters, farmers and transporters in the region.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, announced the approval on Saturday during an interactive session with key stakeholders in Kebbi State, including exporters, transport operators and onion traders who have borne the brunt of the closure.
Adeniyi said the decision followed sustained diplomatic engagements, security consultations and strong political backing from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside cooperation from neighbouring countries.
“We are not unconcerned about what is happening. Behind the scenes, all stakeholders have been working round the clock to resolve these challenges,” the Customs boss said, acknowledging the economic hardship caused by the prolonged border shutdown.
He disclosed that Nigeria recently hosted an urgent delegation from the Niger Republic Customs Service and its Chamber of Commerce in Abuja to fast-track solutions to the trade bottleneck along the corridor.
“I am happy to convey the approval of Mr President to all stakeholders that the Tsamiya border will now be reopened for services,” Adeniyi announced.
He stressed, however, that operations at the border would resume under strict security and compliance guidelines to prevent criminal exploitation of the trade route.
“There are criminals and non-state actors who may want to take advantage of trade routes. We must facilitate trade without compromising national security,” he warned.
As part of the new measures, Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service would deploy ICT-based system interconnectivity with customs administrations in Benin and Niger Republics to ensure seamless declarations, effective monitoring and transparency.
He issued a stern warning against diversion of goods in transit, noting that any truck found outside the approved corridor would be seized, while violators—both operators and officers—would face prosecution or disciplinary action.
The Comptroller-General also emphasised the importance of developing border communities, describing inclusive economic growth as a critical component of national security.
“Border communities must feel the impact of the prosperity passing through their areas. That sense of belonging strengthens national security,” he said.
Commending Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, Adeniyi described him as people-friendly and security-conscious for prioritising border communities.
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Reacting, Governor Idris welcomed the reopening, assuring that the state government would work closely with customs and other security agencies. He also pledged continued support for the families of slain customs officers in line with state policy.
Representing the Benin Republic Customs Service, a senior official praised Nigeria’s decision and reaffirmed commitment to bilateral cooperation for safe and secure trade.
Stakeholders described the reopening as a major boost for non-oil exports and regional commerce. President of the National Onion Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NOPPMAN), Isa Aliyu, said the Tsamiya corridor was critical to the survival of onion farmers and traders due to the perishable nature of the commodity.
“Every hour of delay translates to losses. Closure pushes trade to illegal routes, weakens regulation and reduces government revenue,” Aliyu said.
With approval now granted, stakeholders expressed optimism that regulated operations at Tsamiya would restore confidence, protect livelihoods, improve revenue collection and strengthen Nigeria’s leadership in regional trade.