By Oluwatoyin Adegoke
Nigeria is collaborating with the Republic of Benin to enhance the potential of cross-border trade in fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation.
Representatives of both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the partnerships for economic integration at the annual Festival of Art for Economic Development, held at Idiroko border town with the theme “Cross-Border Trade: What It Is and Why It Matters”.
Addressing the participants, the Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Area Command, Mr Mohammed Shuaibu said the transformative power of cross-border trade would promote sustainable economic activities through trade and cultural diplomacy while fostering peace and mutual understanding among the people.
Mr Shuaibu said the Nigeria Customs Service would not relent in sustaining the efforts at enhancing trade facilitation and economic development in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders.
In a keynote address, the Executive Producer of the Festival, Dr. Bonny Botoku described cross-border trade as the lifeblood of regional economies, aimed at generating employment, increasing revenue, and enhancing market access for businesses.
The Arts Festival featured presentations by the Nigeria Customs Service on the history, benefits and challenges of cross-border trade as well as calls for policy harmonization, technological integration, and improved border security to address the persistent challenges of informal trade, revenue loss, and illegal migration.
Participants also showcased an array of artistic expressions, reflecting the vibrant cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and the Benin Republic, while reaffirming their commitment to strengthening economic integration, promoting legal trade practices, and leveraging art as a vehicle for sustainable development.
The event attracted traditional rulers, border community leaders local government authorities, students and representatives of various interest groups from both countries.
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