The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially announced the closure of all borders with the Republic of Niger. Adewale Adeniyi, the acting comptroller-general of the NCS, addressed the Illela border community in Sokoto State and emphasized that this border closure is not an act of war. He clarified that it is being carried out in accordance with the directive of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has temporarily suspended the movement of cargo until further notice. Adewale further stated that his mission is to reiterate the directives of President Bola Tinubu, who serves as both the commander in chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the chairman of ECOWAS.
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As we are all aware, one of the chairman’s primary responsibilities is to facilitate trade among ECOWAS member countries. However, we also understand that trade cannot thrive in an environment where there is no peace.
The government’s objective is to effectively utilize the connection between trade and security. This motivation led the ECOWAS heads of state to make the decision to suspend trade with our neighboring country, the Republic of Niger.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to mention that other measures are being pursued, particularly through diplomatic channels. Engagements are ongoing with the authorities of Niger to peacefully resolve the crisis. Therefore, the border closure is intended to be a temporary measure until a final resolution of the crisis in Niger Republic is achieved. It is important to clarify that there is no declaration of war against the Niger Republic, and such a declaration has not been made.
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