Nigeria Customs Service announces reopening of Tsamiya Border Corridor in Kebbi State following President Tinubu’s approval
Nigeria Reopens Tsamiya Border Corridor: Customs Vows Zero Tolerance for Diversion, Strict Transit Rules
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its dedication to robust border governance and seamless transit trade after the Federal Government approved the reopening of the Tsamiya Border Corridor in Kebbi State.
The milestone was announced during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi. The session united security agencies, traditional leaders, economic operators, and customs representatives from neighbouring countries to map out strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s northwest border framework while enabling compliant cross-border commerce.
The Tsamiya Corridor—linking Nigeria to the Republic of Benin and serving as a vital transit route to Niger—had been closed for years amid smuggling and security concerns. Its reopening, endorsed by President Bola Tinubu, aims to revive legitimate trade along key land routes and the River Niger corridor.
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi highlighted the need for coordinated action against sophisticated criminal networks.
“Criminal elements operate through cooperation, shared resources, and organised networks. This makes it imperative for security agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to effectively counter such threats,” Adeniyi said.
He praised ongoing Customs-to-Customs engagements with authorities in Niger and Benin, backed by the political commitment of Presidents Tinubu and Patrice Talon of Benin, to tackle persistent transit challenges.
“Diversion of goods in transit is not peculiar to Nigeria; it is a cross-border challenge that requires coordinated enforcement, clear guidelines, and strict compliance to ensure that goods reach their intended destinations,” Adeniyi stated.
The CGC outlined enhanced safeguards: ICT interconnectivity for real-time monitoring, rigorous profiling of licensed agents, and continuous surveillance of transit cargo. He issued a stern warning: any truck deviating from approved routes faces immediate seizure and prosecution, citing recent enforcement actions as proof of the Service’s resolve.
Adeniyi commended the Kebbi State Government for its supportive security environment and recognised retired customs officers from the state for their contributions to national security.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris pledged full backing, including logistics, infrastructure, and community outreach in border areas.
“The Kebbi State Government remains committed to prioritising security and creating an enabling environment for security agencies to operate effectively, while ensuring that border communities benefit from sustained development,” the Governor said.
The event drew high-profile attendees, including Immediate Past Governor and Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, former Governor Usman Dakingari, Benin customs officials, National Security Adviser representatives, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and key traders. All expressed optimism that renewed collaboration will fortify border security, invigorate regional trade, and establish Kebbi as a reliable hub for lawful economic activity. Read More
