By Olusegun Folarin
Nigeria and Benin Republic are working together to strengthen economic connections between both countries and ensure the free movement of commodities in accordance with the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCTa.
The collaboration also includes the renewed commitment by the Nigerian Customs Service and the Benin Republic Customs towards lowering administrative barriers, expediting trade procedures, and improving the effectiveness of customs clearance operations.
The plans were discussed during the visit of the Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Area Command, Mr Muhammad Shuaibu to the Regional Director of Plateau Customs, Mr Gado Ibrahim in Porto-Novo, Benin Republic.
Mr Shuaibu said the move to strengthen collaborations was in line with the policy thrust of the organization through the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adeniyi to enhance cross-border commerce for national economic growth.
Responding, Mr Ibrahim said the authorities of Benin Republic were determined to meet the criteria for resuming full-scale trans – border trade through Igolo border with Nigeria.
He promised continued efforts to eliminate the identified bottlenecks preventing the growth of cross – border commerce, urging both Countries to keep working together on promoting fresh chances for development and partnership.
The Ogun Customs Area Controller had earlier met with Benin Republic’s Customs Controller for Igolo – Idiroko Border and engaged clearing agents, traders and other stakeholders.
