- Tinubu Orders Reopening of Samiya Border in Kebbi
- Customs warned officers, traders against smuggling and transit rule violations.
- Advanced tracking systems approved to ease trade and improve border security.
President Bola Tinubu ordered the immediate reopening of the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State, linking Nigeria with the Republic of Benin.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the directive was announced on February 7, 2026, in Birnin Kebbi during a one day official visit by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in the state capital.
Addressing officers and personnel of the command, Adeniyi warned them against collaborating with smugglers or any illegal groups to undermine the Federal Government’s decision. He said any action capable of weakening the policy would not be tolerated.
The Customs chief explained that the reopening of the border was designed to ease the movement of goods, strengthen security coordination, and ensure that cargo is cleared within 48 hours. He said the policy would also support legitimate trade activities and improve economic cooperation between Nigeria and its neighbours.
Adeniyi disclosed that advanced technology is being deployed to track goods in transit and prevent diversion from approved destinations. He said the modern systems would enhance monitoring of cargo movement and reduce abuse of the transit process.
He added that President Tinubu had approved the movement of trucks through the Republic of Benin and Kebbi State to the Niger Republic. According to him, this approval would further improve regional trade flow and promote orderly transit operations.
The Comptroller General cautioned transporters and traders to strictly comply with all transit regulations. He warned that violators would face serious penalties, noting that non compliance could create trade disputes and damage cooperation between neighbouring countries.
Adeniyi was received by officers of the Kebbi Area Command during the visit. He was accompanied by senior officials of the Benin Republic Customs Service, led by Imura Idirisou, alongside other members of the delegation.
