The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, has asserted that the decision to reopen borders lies solely with President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the need for consultations and engagements before any action is taken.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Kongolam border community in Mai’adua Local Government Area of Katsina State, Adeniyi addressed concerns about the closure of borders and ongoing calls for their reopening.
"While consultations are ongoing, we await a directive from President Tinubu regarding the matter," Adeniyi assured.
He reiterated the Customs Service's commitment to facilitating free trade and fostering economic prosperity in line with the government's agenda.
Adeniyi highlighted proactive measures taken to streamline operations along the borders, including reducing the number of checkpoints and enhancing collaboration with traders.
Acknowledging the concerns raised by border communities, Adeniyi stressed the importance of law-guided operations and responsiveness to citizens' feedback.
He disclosed that the President had been briefed on residents' complaints and directed the release of confiscated food items for sale in Nigerian markets.
In collaboration with the Police and sister agencies, the Customs Service is working to address challenges hindering free trade along the borders, Adeniyi stated.
Recognizing the existence of markets near the borders, Adeniyi emphasized the need to ensure that locally produced food remains within the country, especially during the current period of food scarcity.
"We must collectively enforce laws prohibiting the exportation of food items to address the national emergency of food insufficiency," Adeniyi concluded, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting government initiatives.
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