FG reopens Tsamiya Border corridor to supercharge trade, fortify security

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the Federal Government’s approval to reopen the Tsamiya Border Corridor in Kebbi State, aiming to boost legitimate trade and enhance border governance along critical northwest routes, including the River Niger pathway to neighbouring countries.

This was made known through a statement on Sunday by Customs.

The decision was revealed during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement on Saturday at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.

The forum united security agencies, traditional leaders, economic operators, and international customs representatives to map out strategies for seamless trade under tight compliance rules.

Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi led the discussions, stressing coordinated action against transit trade threats.

“Criminal elements operate through cooperation, shared resources, and organised networks. This makes it imperative for security agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to effectively counter such threats,” he said.

Adeniyi highlighted ongoing talks with customs from Niger Republic and Benin, backed by Presidents Bola Tinubu and Patrice Talon.

“Diversion of goods in transit is not peculiar to Nigeria; it is a cross-border challenge that requires coordinated enforcement, clear guidelines, and strict compliance to ensure that goods reach their intended destinations,” he added.

The corridor will feature advanced ICT monitoring, agent profiling, and route surveillance.

Adeniyi warned: Any truck veering off approved paths faces seizure and prosecution, citing recent cases as proof of NCS resolve.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris pledged full support, including logistics and community outreach.

“The Kebbi State Government remains committed to prioritising security and creating an enabling environment for security agencies to operate effectively, while ensuring that border communities benefit from sustained development,” he affirmed.

Attendees included Immediate Past Governor Atiku Bagudu, former Governor Usman Dakingari, Benin customs officials, National Security Adviser representatives, security heads, traditional rulers, and economic players—all optimistic about positioning Kebbi as a trade hub.