The Federal Government has directed the re-opening of four additional land border posts closed in August of 2019 as part of a policy geared towards efforts to prevent the smuggling of illegal arms, food & agricultural products to stimulate local production.
According to a circular released on Friday by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which was signed by the Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, E.I Edorhe on behalf of the Customs CG, the circular revealed that Idiroko, Jibiya, Kamba and IKon borders should be re-opened with immediate effect.
“The circular titled: ‘Re-opening of four additional Nigerian border posts’ stated that, “Sequel to the Presidential directive dated 16th December 2020, granting approval for phased Re-opening of land borders namely Mfun, Seme, Illela, and Maigatari borders across the country, I am directed to inform you that four additional borders listed below have been approved for re-opening.
“The newly approved borders for Re-opening are Idiroko border post in Ogun State, Jibiya border post in Katsina State, Kamba border post in Kebbi State, and IKon border post in Cross River State.
“Consequently, all Customs formation and Joint Border Posts are to take note and ensure that proper manning takes place in compliance with extant operational guidelines.
“Above is forwarded for your information and compliance.”
The immediate re-opening of the country’s four major land borders; Seme, Illela, Maigatari and Mfun is believed to be in readiness for the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) which is scheduled for January 1 2021. She further stated that other land borders will be reopened on or before 31 December 2020. The ban on the importation of rice, poultry and other products, however, remains in place.
We recall that last year August, the Federal Government announced the total closure of land borders which was part of its efforts to prevent the smuggling of illegal arms, food & agricultural products to stimulate local production. We had stated that the total closure was inadequate to achieve the goal of promotion.