The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), under the leadership of its National President and Chairman of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), Engr. Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON, commends His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for directing the immediate reopening of the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State, linking Nigeria with the Republic of Benin.
The directive, announced during the official visit of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in Birnin Kebbi, represents a strategic and timely policy decision aimed at strengthening legitimate cross-border trade, enhancing regional economic cooperation, and revitalising economic activities along the corridor.
NACCIMA notes with appreciation that the reopening of the border is accompanied by strengthened compliance measures, including the deployment of modern cargo monitoring technology, improved transit controls, coordinated inter-agency oversight, and firm directives to curb smuggling and regulatory abuse. The emphasis on faster cargo clearance timelines reflects a balanced and pragmatic approach that supports trade facilitation while safeguarding national security and revenue interests.
As a leading advocate for private sector–driven growth and regional integration, NACCIMA recognises the far-reaching developmental impact of a functional and well-regulated international border. The reopening of the Samiya International Border is expected to boost border community livelihoods, strengthen agricultural and commodity value chains, support Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises, improve regional food security, deepen bilateral and ECOWAS trade integration, and promote social and cultural exchange.
The decision sends a strong policy signal that regulated and technology-driven border operations can simultaneously promote economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and protect national interests.
NACCIMA reaffirms its commitment to partnering with government agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure that this policy direction translates into sustainable trade expansion, inclusive economic growth, and strengthened regional cooperation.
