The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has provided explanations for its decision not to reopen the border between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
Recall that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had after its meeting on February 25 announced that it agreed to lift economic sanctions imposed on Niger Republic after the military take over power in the country.
But Customs Comptroller in charge of Sokoto/Zamfara Area Command, Kamal Muhammad, said it is waiting for the last order to reopen Nigeria’s border with Niger.
“The lifting of ECOWAS sanctions on Niger Republic and subsequent restoration of power supply to the neighbouring country are the reasons of my visit to ensure that all is set towards the re-opening of the Illela border as we await the last order,” Muhammad said.
He therefore charged Illela border community, marketers and other stakeholders to adhere to stipulated regulations as ECOWAS lift sanctions against Niger Republic.
The Customs boss said his inspection visit was to assess the situation and interact with officials of sister agencies, marketers and residents.
He solicited for more cooperation from the stakeholders and urged them to ensure harmonious working relationship at all times.
”My visit to Illela border station is to ensure that all is set in anticipation of the last order of the border re-opening.
“With collaboration, each agency will be able to effectively and efficiently fulfill its assigned mandate,” he said.
He disclosed that Customs had awarded a contract for the construction of a Primary Healthcare Center (PHC), at Illela border as part of its corporate social responsibility to the community
The Customs boss appreciated the licensed agents, traditional rulers and community members and encouraged them to support NCS with information to enable them serve the nation better.
He used the medium to sensitise the community to dangers of smuggling which, he said, was hindering economic growth.
Muhammad stressed the need for stakeholders to support NCS to achieve its constitutional mandate.
Responding on behalf of the border community, a traditional ruler, Alhaji Muhammadu, thanked the comptroller for the visit and assured him of maximum support to NCS and other sister agencies at the border.
