Customs reopens Kamba, Tsamiya borders in Kebbi to boost trade with Benin, Niger

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area Command in Kebbi State has reopened the Kamba and Tsamiya border posts in Dandi and Bagudo Local Government Areas to the Republics of Benin and Niger, in a move aimed at facilitating bilateral trade and cross-border economic activities.

The borders had earlier been shut following rising insecurity along the border corridors, disrupting the movement of goods and commercial activities between the neighbouring countries.

However, the crossings were officially reopened on Monday after a series of diplomatic engagements and agreements reached between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

Speaking during the reopening ceremony, the Customs Area Comptroller in Kebbi State, Mahmud Matawalle Ibrahim, said the decision was taken with the approval of the President to enable the smooth movement of legitimate goods across the borders.

According to him, the reopening allows goods cleared at the Tsamiya border to move legally through the Kamba border into the Niger Republic via the Tunga Jado border post.

He disclosed that several trucks previously stranded in the Benin Republic had now been officially cleared at Tsamiya and permitted to transit to Niger through Kebbi State.

Matawalle noted that the reopening of the borders would significantly enhance trading activities, improve revenue generation, and strengthen security cooperation among the neighbouring countries.

He added that Nigeria, Benin, and Niger were committed to upholding the agreements reached and ensuring the smooth, secure, and lawful operation of commercial activities along the border routes.