Ogun 1 Customs Area Command Parleys Stakeholders Across Nigeria -Benin Border, Expedite Flow Of Legitimate Trade, Smoothen Challenges
Ogun 1 Customs Area Command Parleys Stakeholders Across Nigeria -Benin Border, Expedite Flow Of Legitimate Trade, Smoothen Challenges
By Jerry Aguigbo
Customs, Ogun 1 Command has hosted stakeholders across Nigeria – Benin Republic borders. The latest effort by the Ogun 1 Command, led by Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu was
aimed at addressing and finding solutions to challenges affecting the flow of legitimate cross-border trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin through the Idiroko and Igolo border posts.
In attendance were representatives from the Benin Republic Customs Authority, led by Col. Soglonou Jean -Paul, CAC Igolo Plateau Province, Benin Republic. Key government agencies, trade associations, business leaders, and so many other stakeholders took time to attend yesterday, at the Command’s Conference Hall.
Addressing the gathering, the Ogun 1 Customs Command Area Controller , Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu who welcomed participants stated that their presence underscores the importance of collaboration, dialogue, and collective action to address the challenges facing legitimate trade between the two nations; Nigeria and Benin Republic.
“The economic relationship between Nigeria and Benin is vital not only to our bilateral ties but to the entire region. Both our countries share a rich history of trade and economic cooperation, and it is imperative that we ensure this continues to thrive in a secure and orderly manner. However, as we are all aware, there are several hurdles along the way that hinder the smooth flow of trade, including issues at the border, regulatory challenges, and security concerns.
The purpose of this meeting is to engage in meaningful discussions, identify these barriers, and work together to find practical solutions that will facilitate legitimate trade across these borders. It is my firm belief that with your collective expertise, we will be able to develop action plans that will not only improve trade between Nigeria and Benin but also strengthen the relationship between our nations.”
The meeting as planned was to offer both sides the opportunity to hear firsthand from stakeholders, share insights, and engage in frank discussions that will lead to actionable outcomes.
It also aims to address the root causes of delays, inefficiencies, and other challenges, and to ensure that both countries continue to benefit from their trade interactions in a way that fosters economic growth, job creation, and prosperity. Shuaibu urged each participant to approach this meeting with an open mind and a collaborative spirit. “Your input and expertise are invaluable to this process, and together, I am confident that we will identify solutions that will enhance the free movement of goods and services across our borders.”
He further expressed his gratitude to those who found time to participate.”I offer my sincere gratitude for your participation and commitment to making this initiative a success. Let us work together in the spirit of cooperation and partnership to strengthen the economic ties between Nigeria and Benin, while also contributing to the wider goals of regional integration and sustainable development,” he submitted.
In response, the Benin Customs Controller, Col .Sognonou Jean Paul, CAC Igolo plateau Province, Benin Republic, thanked his Nigerian Counterpart for Convening the Meeting.
He said the 3 key functions of Customs are Revenue Collection, Trade facilitation and Anti Smuggling , stressing that Customs must key into this.
According to him,for the relationship to function properly, the aims and Objectives of this must be properly outlined and Achieved.
He Confirmed that there has definitely been some improvement due Largely to efforts by both sides.
– He advised that both sides must Contribute wholeheartedly for any meaningful result to be achieved.
Adding that promotion and facilitation of trade must be strictly adhered to, both sides must be seen to work together .
He opined that the Igolo – Idiroko border must be used to facilitate goods movement,since the Benin/ Niger border is closed for now.
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