By Daniel Edu
In an announcement made by Adewale Adeniyi, the acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, plans are underway to renew positive diplomatic ties with Cameroon and the southern region of Chad. Adeniyi shared this intention during a meeting in Abuja where he hosted Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum.
Adeniyi emphasized the Customs Service’s commitment to rejuvenating cross-border trade within the northeastern region. He also highlighted the organization’s eagerness to facilitate enhanced trade activities in Nigeria’s northeastern area. Adeniyi stated, “As we move forward, we seek your assistance in engaging with the communities along the Borno border, especially considering the diminished insurgency threat. We will build upon our existing strong relationships and leverage them to reestablish favorable relations with both Cameroon and the southern sector of Chad.”
The Customs head projected that these efforts would contribute to the economic growth of the region, generating employment opportunities for the local populace.
Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the longstanding partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Borno State Government, particularly in matters of border security and humanitarian support. He also affirmed his unwavering commitment to aiding terrorism victims within the state.
The Comptroller General pledged his organization’s full support to collaborate with the military in formulating innovative strategies to restore robust cross-border trade networks in the region.
Governor Zulum lauded Adeniyi’s appointment as the Comptroller-General and extended commendation to the Nigeria Customs Service for its invaluable contributions to uplifting the living standards of displaced communities across Borno and the northeastern region. Zulum acknowledged the Customs Service’s distribution of essential supplies to victims of the Boko Haram insurgency, providing relief to those affected by hardship.
Zulum expressed a keen interest in partnering with the Customs Service to facilitate trans-border trade activities in the North-East, particularly within Borno State. With the gradual return of peace to the region, Zulum affirmed his readiness to collaborate with the Customs Service in facilitating the transportation of goods between Nigeria’s borders and those of Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.
