President Tinubu Directs Customs to Reopen Transit Routes to Niger Republic.
Easing Regional Logistics: President Tinubu Directs Customs to Reopen Transit Routes to Niger Republic. www.arzeeka.com , 07/02/2026.
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| Bola Tinubu |
In a significant move to bolster regional trade and streamline cross-border logistics, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially directed the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to allow trucks carrying transit goods destined for the Niger Republic to pass through Nigerian territory.
The directive, which specifically opens routes through the Benin Republic and Kebbi State, was announced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, during a recent visit to Birnin Kebbi.
Key Highlights of the New Directive:
Targeted Routes: Transit cargo originating from Nigeria’s seaports (such as Apapa) and airports can now move toward Niger via designated corridors in Kebbi State and the Benin Republic.
Efficiency Goals: The NCS is aiming for a 48-hour clearance timeline for eligible transit cargo to reduce bottlenecks that have plagued regional trade since 2023.
Tech-Driven Monitoring: To prevent the diversion of goods and ensure national security, the Customs Service is deploying advanced technology-driven solutions for real-time tracking and transparency.
Stiff Penalties: The Comptroller-General issued a stern warning that any economic operators found violating transit regulations or diverting cargo will face severe sanctions.
A Shift in Regional Diplomacy
This policy mark a notable pivot from the restrictive measures imposed following the July 2023 coup in Niger. While Nigeria and ECOWAS initially closed borders and imposed sanctions, the 2024 lifting of those bans has now evolved into a more proactive effort to facilitate trade, despite the ongoing diplomatic complexities with the Confederation of Sahel States (AES).
What This Means for Businesses
For logistics companies, manufacturers, and international traders, this directive offers a clearer, more efficient path for moving goods across the Sahel. By reducing non-tariff barriers and improving monitoring, the Federal Government aims to restore trust with neighboring markets while safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.

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