FG Reopens Tsamiya Corridor to Enhance Trade and Strengthen Border Security
By Queen Abayomi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated its commitment to secure border management and promote legitimate trade following the Federal Government’s approval to reopen the Tsamiya Border Corridor.
This development was announced during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the Kebbi State Government House.
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The meeting brought together security agencies, traditional rulers, economic operators, and international customs representatives to discuss practical strategies for strengthening border operations in Nigeria’s northwest region while ensuring smooth and compliant trade activities.
The reopening of the corridor reflects ongoing efforts by the NCS to strike a balance between national security and trade facilitation, particularly along vital land routes and the River Niger corridor linking Nigeria with neighbouring countries.
Speaking at the engagement, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of strong inter-agency cooperation and cross-border collaboration in tackling emerging security and transit trade challenges.
He noted that criminal networks often operate through coordinated systems and shared resources, stressing that security agencies must adopt similar cooperation strategies to effectively combat such threats.
Adeniyi disclosed that the Service is currently working closely with customs authorities in the Niger Republic and the Republic of Benin to resolve longstanding transit trade challenges.
He stated that the collaboration is supported by the political commitment of President Bola Tinubu and President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic.
He explained that diversion of goods in transit remains a global border challenge that requires strict enforcement measures, clear operational guidelines, and compliance monitoring to ensure cargo reaches its intended destination.
According to the CGC, the Tsamiya Corridor will operate under enhanced monitoring systems, including improved ICT-driven tracking mechanisms, stricter profiling of licensed customs agents, and intensified surveillance of transit goods. He warned that any truck found deviating from approved routes would be seized, and offenders prosecuted in accordance with transit regulations.
He also commended the Kebbi State Government for maintaining a supportive security environment and acknowledged the contributions of retired senior customs officers from the state toward strengthening national security and customs administration.
In his remarks, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting Customs and other security agencies through improved logistics, infrastructure development, and community engagement in border areas.
He stated that the government remains focused on ensuring adequate security while promoting development opportunities for border communities.
The engagement was attended by the Minister of Budget and National Planning and former Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu, as well as another former governor, Usman Dakingari. Also present were customs officials from the Republic of Benin, representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and key economic stakeholders.
Participants expressed confidence that the renewed collaboration would enhance border security, strengthen regional trade, and position Kebbi State as a strategic centre for lawful economic activities.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, FEBRUARY 8TH 2026)
