The Federal Government has officially reopened the Nigeria–Niger Republic border through the Kamba corridor in Kebbi State.
The reopening, which took place on Monday, comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu approved the resumption of cross-border activities along the Nigeria–Benin Republic route via the Tsamiya corridor. The move is aimed at boosting regional trade, strengthening economic relations, and improving the flow of legitimate goods and services across West Africa.
Speaking at the reopening ceremony in Kamba, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Kebbi Area Command, Mahmoud Ibrahim, said the agency was prepared to implement the President’s directive as passed down through the Comptroller-General of Customs.
He stated that Customs officers had been fully deployed to ensure smooth operations and support lawful commercial activities along the corridor.
“We are here to carry out the President’s directive through the Comptroller-General of Customs. Our personnel are ready to ensure that legal trade resumes without disruption,” Ibrahim said.
He also stressed that monitoring would be intensified to ensure compliance with trade regulations and prevent smuggling and other illegal practices.
Also addressing stakeholders, the Controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, Aminu Suleiman, warned that reopening the border would not reduce enforcement of existing laws.
According to him, security agencies would maintain strict vigilance to safeguard Nigeria’s economic and security interests.
“The reopening does not mean the laws will be relaxed. It demands greater professionalism and alertness to ensure transparency and security,” Suleiman said.
Meanwhile, the District Head of Kamba, Muhammad Shiko Kamba, praised the Federal Government for the decision, describing it as a major boost for border communities.
He said the development would revive local businesses, restore livelihoods, and bring economic relief to residents.
“This is a huge relief for our people. It will bring back commerce and improve the standard of living in Kamba, Kebbi State, and the country as a whole,” he said.
Representing the Kebbi State Governor, Nasiru Idris, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barrister Attahiru Maccido, described the reopening of the Tsamiya and Kamba border routes as a landmark achievement for West African trade.
He noted that the decision would improve economic activities and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people in the state.
“Today feels like a Sallah celebration. Reopening these two major corridors is a significant economic breakthrough and a sign of renewed hope,” Maccido said.
However, he urged traders and security agencies to ensure transparency and avoid illegal transactions.
“While this will improve trade and generate jobs, all stakeholders must ensure that only legal and accountable businesses are conducted,” he added.
The reopening of the Nigeria–Niger border through Kamba is expected to enhance trade, boost the economy of border communities, and strengthen Nigeria’s integration within the West African sub-region.
