Katsina borders with Niger Republic remain closed
Nigeria’s borders with the Niger Republic in Kongolam and Babban Mutun areas of Katsina State have remained closed amid complaints from residents that the closure continues to affect legitimate commercial activities. The borders were closed in August 2019 by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari as part of measures to curb smuggling and boost […]
The borders between Katsina State in Nigeria and the Niger Republic have remained closed since August 2019, causing issues for legitimate commercial activities. Former President Muhammadu Buhari closed the borders to combat smuggling and promote domestic production. The current government has claimed the borders are open, contradicting claims made by presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, who argued reopening them would boost trade, create jobs, and enhance security.
However, the presidency insists the land borders reopened in March 2024. While many borders are open, several, including those in Kongolam and Babban Mutun, remain closed. Residents claim this has hurt commerce and businesses have closed. They also noted numerous checkpoints along the Daura-Kongolam road, where they say they are extorted and transport costs are high.
The chairman of the Kongolam Border Community Forum called the checkpoints a deterrent to traders and said the international market that once saw cross-border trade has declined due to the closures. They urged the government to reopen the borders to stimulate commerce, revive markets, and generate employment for young people.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
