The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has emphasized that the decision to reopen the borders rests with President Bola Tinubu.
Addressing members of the Kongolam border community in Mai’adua Local Government Area of Katsina state, Adeniyi highlighted the ongoing engagements and consultations concerning the border’s reopening.
“We are in discussions to address concerns and explore the possibility of reopening the borders,” Adeniyi stated during the interactive session.
Furthermore, Adeniyi outlined the Service’s commitment to facilitating free trade and supporting economic growth under the current administration’s agenda.
“We are committed to removing obstacles to free trade and fostering synergy between our personnel and traders,” he affirmed.
Adeniyi also assured the border communities that efforts are underway to reduce the number of checkpoints along border posts. He reiterated that decisions regarding border operations are made in accordance with the law and delegated powers
“We are mindful of the concerns raised by border communities, including the proliferation of checkpoints and the closure of land borders,” Adeniyi acknowledged. “We have relayed these concerns to the President, who has instructed the release of confiscated food items to be sold exclusively in Nigerian markets.”
Adeniyi stressed the importance of ensuring that locally produced food remains within the country to address food scarcity concerns during the national emergency.
“We will continue to monitor and enforce laws prohibiting the exportation of food items,” he declared. “It is imperative that we work together to support the government’s efforts in maintaining food sufficiency during this critical period.”
