Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs, has stated that President Bola Tinubu will decide whether to reopen the borders.
During an interactive session with members of the Kongolam border village in Katsina’s Mai’adua Local Government Area, Adeniyi stated that discussions and deliberations over reopening the border are still underway.
He also stated that the Service will focus on eliminating barriers to free trade in accordance with the current administration’s aim of promoting economic growth.
Adeniyi further stated that they are working to reduce the number of checkpoints along border posts and increase cooperation between Service personnel and traders.
“Once consultations are concluded, a decision will be taken on the matter. We are conscious of the concerns of the border communities, particularly with regards to the number of checkpoints and the closure of land borders.
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“I assure you that our operations are always guided by law and we only operate on delegated powers. We have communicated the concerns and complaints by residents of the border communities to the President.
“Because he has listening ears, and directed that we should release confiscated food items, on the condition that it only be sold in Nigerian markets.
“We know that there are markets around our borders, and we know that not all of them are targeted at taking goods across the borders.
“We will continue to monitor and ensure that food that is produced in Nigeria remains and is consumed in Nigeria. This is because we are in a period of national emergency that has to do with food insufficiency.
“And that is why we must collectively work together to assist the government to enforce the various laws prohibiting exportation of food items at this time.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
