The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the immediate reopening of the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State.
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The border, which links Nigeria with the Republic of Benin, is a key trade route for cross-border commerce and economic activities in the North-West region.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued by the National President of NACCIMA and Chairman of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), Engr. Jani Ibrahim.
Ibrahim said the directive, announced during the visit of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in Birnin Kebbi, was timely and strategic.
He noted that the reopening would strengthen cross-border trade, deepen regional economic cooperation and revive legitimate business activities along the corridor.
According to him, NACCIMA welcomes the accompanying measures, including strengthened compliance mechanisms, deployment of modern cargo monitoring technology, improved transit controls and firm actions against smuggling.
He said the focus on faster cargo clearance and coordinated inter-agency oversight showed a balanced approach that supports trade facilitation while protecting national security and revenue.
Ibrahim stated that functional and well-regulated border posts were critical to improving border community livelihoods, agricultural value chains and the growth of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs).
He added that the development would also enhance regional food security and strengthen bilateral trade relations within the ECOWAS sub-region.
The NACCIMA president reaffirmed the association’s commitment to collaborating with government agencies and stakeholders to ensure sustainable trade expansion, inclusive growth and stronger regional integration.
