The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has addressed the ongoing speculation regarding the closure of Nigeria’s borders with Niger Republic, emphasizing that it does not signify a declaration of war between the two nations. Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS acting comptroller general, clarified this stance during his visit to the Illela border community in Sokoto State.

Mr. Adeniyi, who was present at the Illela border to assess compliance, stated that the situation unfolding in Nigeria is not unique, as similar developments are occurring in other West African states that share borders with Niger Republic. He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu, both the Commander in Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), aims to promote trade among ECOWAS members.

Mr. Adeniyi highlighted that peaceful conditions are essential for trade to thrive and that the government’s intention is to balance the relationship between trade and security. He noted that the crisis in Niger Republic has led to the suspension of trade with the neighboring nation, as a decision by ECOWAS Heads of States. Diplomatic measures are being pursued to achieve a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

The NCS acting comptroller general clarified that the temporary closure affects all areas where the Niger Republic shares a border with Nigeria. He stressed that the border closure is a short-term measure pending the resolution of the crisis in Niger Republic, reiterating that there has been no declaration of war.

Buhari Tukur, the district head of Illela, expressed gratitude to the customs chief for the visit. Represented by Abubakar Abdullahi, Mr. Tukur assured that the community would continue to abide by the law and respect government policies.

(People’s Gazette)