By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
Foreign Ministers from Nigeria and Benin Republic convened for bilateral discussions with the goal of enhancing the unrestricted movement of goods and services between the two nations.
The gathering was held at a border facility in Benin Republic situated in Tsamiya, Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Following a confidential meeting, Nigerian Foreign Minister Alhaji Yusuf Tuggar revealed that the discussions were arranged by Presidents Bola Tinubu and Patrice Talon to fortify social and economic ties, as well as to broaden commercial activities among the populace of both countries.
“The meeting at the Segbana border post in Benin Republic is intended to revive the border passage connecting Tsamiya in Nigeria and Anguwar Sule Wata in Benin Republic by enhancing infrastructure in accordance with President Tinubu’s revitalization initiative, “Tuggar articulated.
He further mentioned that considerable headway had been achieved in reinforcing the relations between the two West African nations.
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale-Adeniyi, underscored that the gathering was geared towards promoting regional unity between the two nations, as envisioned by both leaders.
“For the last six months, the Nigeria Customs Service has collaborated with the Customs Service of Benin Republic to foster closer economic ties through streamlined border crossings and the re-establishment of the border post at Tsamiya and Anguwar Sule Wara,” Adewale-Adeniyi highlighted.
“One of our primary obstacles is infrastructure, and we have initiated efforts to enhance facilities at the border for seamless passage and entry for the citizens of both countries,” he appended.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State conveyed appreciation to the presidents of both nations for revitalizing the unobstructed flow of trade and movement of goods within their respective regions.
“Kebbi State has upheld an amicable relationship with the Republic of Benin, benefiting border communities and other inhabitants through economic engagements and social exchanges,” Idris stated.
Among the dignitaries present at the meeting were Romuald Wadagni, Senior Minister of the Ministry of Economy, Finance and Cooperation; Olushegun Adjadi-Bakaru, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Benin Republic; and Mrs. Adidjatou Hassan, General Director of the Benin Customs Service.
