The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, declared on Saturday that the decision to reopen the borders in the country rests solely with President Bola Tinubu.
During an interaction session with members of the Kongolam border community in Mai’adua Local Government Area of Katsina State, Adeniyi addressed the clamor for border reopening, emphasizing ongoing engagements and consultations on the matter.
“Once consultations are concluded, a decision will be taken on the matter,” he assured.
Adeniyi pledged the Service’s commitment to removing barriers hindering free trade in line with the current administration’s economic agenda.
He highlighted proactive measures to reduce checkpoints along the border posts and enhance collaboration between Service personnel and traders.
“We are aware of the concerns of the border communities, particularly regarding the number of checkpoints and the border closure,” Adeniyi stated.
He mentioned that residents’ complaints had been relayed to the President, resulting in directives to release confiscated food items for sale exclusively in Nigerian markets.
Adeniyi also disclosed collaborative efforts with the Police and other agencies to address obstacles to free trade along the borders.
“We will continue to monitor and ensure that food produced in Nigeria remains and is consumed in Nigeria,” he emphasized, citing the national emergency related to food sufficiency.
