Checks by Shipping Position Daily have revealed a significant drop in the number of checkpoints along the Seme-Mile 2 international corridor, particularly those mounted by security agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Police Force (NPF), the Nigerian Army and other related agencies.
This development comes as part of a coordinated efforts to ease movement along the strategic international route and improve Nigeria’s image in the West African sub-region.
Our correspondent, who visited the Seme-Krake Border last week, observed a drastic reduction in checkpoints compared to previous years. Less than 20 checkpoints were sighted along the entire stretch between Seme and Mile 2. This marks a sharp contrast to the previous situation where multiple security posts often caused delays, extortion allegations, and trade inefficiencies.
While checkpoints by Immigration, Police, and the Army have also reduced, the Police still maintain more roadblocks than any other security agency along the route.
Commenting on the development, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Seme Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo, attributed the reduction to continuous inter-agency collaboration and directives from the Federal Government. He noted that between Seme and Badagry, there are now only about three to four Customs checkpoints.
Dr Oramulogo added that engagements with the National Assembly and communication with higher authorities, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, led to the directive to reduce unnecessary checkpoints.
The Customs boss emphasized the need for continued synergy among sister agencies and revealed plans to engage the Nigerian ambassador in the Republic of Benin to strengthen cross-border cooperation. He also highlighted the importance of adhering to ECOWAS trade protocols and eliminating redundant checks that undermine regional economic integration.
Despite the improvements, Dr Oramalugo acknowledged that some agencies still operate with a sense of independence, especially in enforcing revenue collection. He stressed that further harmonization and digital connectivity between agencies and West African countries would be key to eliminating double taxation and improving trade facilitation.
“Between Seme and Badagry, we have only about three or four Customs checkpoints. I have also started a meeting of all security agencies. This inter-agency meeting was last done about five to six years ago “Before then, there was little coordination. We didn’t even know who the commanding officer of the Army was in some instances. But gradually, we began to harmonize our operations.
“This corridor is part of the Abidjan-Lagos corridor, a key regional trade route and the gateway to French-speaking West African countries. If we get our security and operations right, we’ll improve Nigeria’s image within the committee of nations,”Dr Oramalugo said.
