Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commence implementation of ECOWAS directive by halting the inflow of goods and services aroung Nigeria-Niger border.
The directive came into effect following recent overthrow of a democratically elected government in Niger Republic, and with the military junta not willing to go into peaceful negotiation with the regional body, Nigerian governments was left with no other option to close it’s borders
Acting Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, re-echoed President Bola Tinubu’s reason for taking the action, noting that the measure was not meant to bring hardship on Nigerians.
The CGC, who was on a working visit to Illela Border Station to monitor implementation of the exercise, expressed delight with the level of compliance by residents.
He said the restriction was a decision taken by ECOWAS, which the Nigerian President chairs, adding that the government is optimistic that the effort will yield results and restore peace.
He also said the exercise would secure Nigeria’s democracy and social stability, given the current state of uncertainty in neighbouring Niger Republic.On whether the exercise will affect customs’ revenue generation, the CGC said the Service was aware of the situation and had already taken proactive steps to address it strategically.
