Nigeria, Niger Customs seek stronger Kamba border trade

The Nigeria Customs Service's Kebbi Area Command convened a meeting with a delegation from Nigerien Customs to discuss challenges affecting trade along the Kamba–Tungan Gyado border corridor. The goal was to promote legitimate trade, generate revenue, and alleviate economic hardships for communities on both sides of the border. As reported by The PUNCH, customs officials from both countries attended the meeting, including the Customs Area Controller for Kebbi Area Command, Mahmoud Ibrahim, and the Comptroller, Douanes du Dosso, Niger Republic, Abdoulaye Vincent.

Comptroller Vincent expressed gratitude for the Nigeria Customs Service's efforts to host the delegation and emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, particularly in facilitating trade through the Kamba corridor. Insecurity along the Burkina Faso and Togo routes, as well as strained diplomatic relations with the Benin Republic, had hindered trade, according to Vincent.

He called for increased legitimate exports through Kamba to bolster revenue and ease economic struggles for communities along the corridor and beyond.

The Nigeria Customs Service welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with Nigerien Customs. They pledged to educate stakeholders on customs procedures and encourage greater use of the Kamba corridor. The meeting concluded with the Sarkin Shikon Kamba, expressing gratitude for the conducive environment for legitimate business and praying for the success of the partnership.