FG Delegation Meets in Segbana, Benin Republic, to Fast-Track Reopening of Tsamiya Border In Kebbi

In a concerted effort to boost regional integration and economic activities, a high-level delegation from the Federal Government of Nigeria convened in Segbana, Benin Republic, for an inter-ministerial meeting aimed at fast-tracking the reopening of the Tsamiya border post in Kebbi State. The meeting, held on May 21, 2024, sought to streamline the operationalization of the border post.

The Nigerian delegation included the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, Director of Home Finance at the Ministry of Finance, Alhaji Ali Mohammed, and Dr. Dakorinama Alabo George, Director General of the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), among other dignitaries.

The discussions covered a broad range of issues related to the border post’s opening, with a focus on logistics, security measures, and economic impact. Feasibility studies were presented, highlighting the expected benefits, such as increased trade, and potential challenges. The meeting also involved setting timelines and identifying necessary infrastructure to ensure a smooth operation.

Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the importance of the engagement between Nigeria and Benin Republic in boosting economic ties. “To ensure closer working and economic relations between Nigeria and the Benin Republic. Over the last six months, within this collaboration framework, we have been working with our colleagues from the Beninese Customs Administration to ensure that we bring the economy together through easy border crossing with goods,” he stated.

Director General of the Benin Customs Administration, Adidjatou Hassan, welcomed the move to reopen the border, highlighting its potential to strengthen trade activities between the two nations. “This development is expected to increase economic cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations. We are committed to sustaining our seamless collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service while enhancing security at our borders and trade activities,” she said.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, noted that the decision to form the forum was based on directives from Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Patrice Talon to enhance social and economic interaction and expand trade and commercial ties between the citizens of the two nations.

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, expressed gratitude for the initiative, emphasizing the longstanding good neighborliness between the state and the Republic of Benin. “The state has maintained good neighborliness with the Republic of Benin on economic activities and social interaction, benefiting both sides of the border,” he said.

Further discussions involved resolving disputes and agreeing on an operational framework. The reinvigoration of a joint commission between Nigeria and Benin was a central theme, with both sides committing to establishing the necessary infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a summary of key points discussed and a formal statement of commitment from both sides. An agreement was reached to schedule a follow-up meeting in June 2024 to monitor progress and address any outstanding issues. Additionally, the delegation agreed to hold a bi-national committee meeting, with subcommittees expected to submit their reports within two weeks to streamline efforts towards reopening the border.