CEM REPORT | The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed the reopening of four land borders shut three years ago.
The directive was contained in a circular to various heads of the Customs Service. The circular titled: “Re-opening of four additional Nigerian border posts” was signed by the Deputy Comptroller-General E. I. Edorhe, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.
The borders to be reopened include; Jibiya border post in Katsina State, Ikom border post in Cross River State, Idiroko border post in Ogun State and Kamba border post in Kebbi State.
“Sequel to the Presidential directive dated December 16, 2020, granting approval for phased reopening of land borders namely; Mfum, Seme, Illela and Maigatari borders across the country, I am directed to inform you that four additional borders listed below have been approved for re-opening.
“Idiroko border post, Ogun State (South-West Zone); Jibiya border post, Katsina State (North-West Zone); Kamba border post, Kebbi State (North-West Zone); and Ikom border post, Cross River State (South-South Zone)
The circular also enjoined Joint Border Patrol Teams to ensure proper manning of the borders in compliance with operational guidelines.
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“Consequently, all Customs formations and Joint Border Patrol Teams are to take note and ensure that proper manning takes place in compliance with extant operational guidelines.”
The circular, copied all Assistant Comptrollers-General/Zonal Coordinators, Area Controllers, Comptroller, Federal Operations Unit & Marine Commands, Comptroller, Customs Intelligent Unit, JBPT Sector Coordinators, Strike Force Commanders and Heads of Units, directing them for compliance, stating;
“Above is forwarded for your information and compliance.”
Recall that, late 2019, the Federal Government announced the total closure of land borders, banning both legitimate and illegitimate movement of goods in and out of the country.
The FG did this as part of effort to prevent the smuggling of illegal arms, food & agricultural products to stimulate local production
In December 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari ordered the immediate reopening of four previously closed land borders, over a year after they were all shut. The borders include Seme, Illela, Maigatari and Mfun.
