The Federal Government has re-opened four additional land border posts closed in August of 2019.
The government had closed down the borders in 2019 in a bid to check the smuggling of illegal arms, food & agricultural products into the country and to stimulate local production.
But a statement released on Friday by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and signed by the NCS Deputy Comptroller General, E.I Edorhe disclosed that the Idiroko, Jibiya, Kamba and IKon borders have now been re-opened with immediate effect.
The statement entitled, ‘Re-opening of four additional Nigerian border posts’, reads: “Sequel to the Presidential directive dated 16th December 2020, granting approval for phased Re-opening of land borders namely Mfun, Seme, Illela, and Maigatari borders across the country, I am directed to inform you that four additional borders listed below have been approved for re-opening.
“The newly approved borders for Re-opening are Idiroko border post in Ogun State, Jibiya border post in Katsina State, Kamba border post in Kebbi State, and IKon border post in Cross River State.
“Consequently, all Customs formation and Joint Border Posts are to take note and ensure that proper manning takes place in compliance with extant operational guidelines.
Above is forwarded for your information and compliance.”
“This action is believed to be in readiness for the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) which is scheduled for January 1 2021.
She further stated that other land borders will be reopened on or before 31 December 2020.
The ban on the importation of rice, poultry and other products, however, remains in place,” the statement adds.
