Cross-border trade : Comptroller Shuaibu meets Customs in Benin Republic

Cross-border trade :
Comptroller Shuaibu meets Customs in Benin Republic

The Area Controller, Ogun 1 Command of Nigeria Customs Service,
Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, has led a high-level delegation from Nigeria on a working visit to the Regional Director of Platea Customs in Porto-Novo, Benin Republic Col. Gado Shegun Ibrahim.

The visit, which focused on cross-border trade between Nigeria and Benin Republic was a follow-up to earlier visit to the Customs Controller Igolo-Idiroko Border and stakeholders’ engagement, held at the Command.

It is pertinent to note that the visit came after a fruitful meeting with clearing agents, maritime traders and stakeholders, held on March 4, 2025, at Ogun 1 Command, when all parties committed to strengthening collaboration and promote expansion of bilateral commerce.

Both sides reiterated their dedication to lowering administrative barriers, expediting trade procedures, and improving effectiveness of customs clearance operations.

With emphasis on encouraging free movement of commodities in accordance with Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), the visit underscored the need to fortify economic connections between the two countries.

“I’m here to further strengthen the cooporation and collaboration in line with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR,” Compt. Shuaibu Said

“Building a closer and more fruitful relationship with our neighbours is something we are dedicated to. The Command’s commitment to strengthening cross-border commerce, encouraging economic growth, and raising the quality of life for our inhabitants is demonstrated by today’s visit.”

Col. Ibrahim Gado responded by confirming that the Authorities in Benin Republic held multiple meetings concerning Igolo Border.

At one of those meetings, criteria for resuming full-scale trans-border trade via Igolo border were established; fortunately, the Igolo border satisfied the requirements and promised the Customs Area Controller of prompt results.

“We are excited to keep working together and investigate fresh chances for development and partnership” he stressed.