By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
In a decisive move to boost legitimate trade and tighten border governance, the Federal Government has officially reopened the Tsamiya Border Corridor, a critical artery linking Nigeria to its northwestern neighbors.
The announcement was made during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the Kebbi State Government House.
The gathering, convened under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, brought together security agencies, traditional leaders, economic operators, and customs representatives from Nigeria and neighboring countries, including the Republics of Niger and Benin.
The event provided a strategic platform to discuss practical steps for strengthening border security while facilitating seamless trade.
Speaking to stakeholders, CGC Adeniyi emphasized that coordinated inter-agency efforts are essential to dismantle the organized networks behind cross-border criminality.
“Criminal elements operate through cooperation, shared resources, and organised networks. Security agencies must respond in kind together, strategically, and decisively,” Adeniyi warned.
He explained that the reopening of the Tsamiya Corridor aligns with ongoing Customs-to-Customs collaboration facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his regional counterparts, including President Patrice Talon of Benin, to resolve persistent transit trade challenges.
Adeniyi noted that diversion of goods in transit is a regional issue, not unique to Nigeria, and requires clear guidelines, technology-driven monitoring, and strict enforcement.
The CGC confirmed that the Tsamiya Corridor will operate under enhanced ICT monitoring, rigorous profiling of licensed customs agents, and real-time surveillance of transit goods.
“Any truck deviating from the approved route will be seized, and offenders prosecuted,” he stated, pointing to recent successful prosecutions as proof of the Service’s firm stance.
In a show of support, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State pledged the state’s continued commitment to logistics, infrastructure, and community engagement in border areas.
“Our administration prioritizes security while ensuring border communities benefit from sustainable development,” the Governor said.
The engagement attracted prominent leaders and stakeholders, including former governors Atiku Bagudu and Usman Dakingari, representatives of the Office of the National Security Adviser, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and key economic operators.
All participants voiced confidence that the renewed collaboration would enhance regional trade, strengthen security, and position Kebbi State as a hub for lawful economic activity.
The reopening of the Tsamiya Corridor marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s northwest border strategy, balancing national security imperatives with the facilitation of legitimate trade and signaling a clear warning to criminal networks operating across borders.
