The Nigerian government has announced its intention to permit importers to legally clear their goods through the Cotonou Ports in Benin Republic. This decision was revealed in a communique issued following a meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday.
The meeting, which spanned two days, featured Mr. Alain Kinkati, Director-General of the Customs Service of Benin Republic, and highlighted the establishment of a clearing station for products destined for Nigeria as a significant development.
Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, the Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), disclosed that the details of this framework are currently under development. Under this arrangement, goods bound for Nigeria will undergo assessment and the applicable duties will be paid in the originating country, with these levies being credited to the Nigerian government through the Nigerian Customs Service.
Adeniyi emphasized the importance of this framework in advancing sub-regional integration and trade facilitation efforts, particularly with neighboring Benin Republic. He also noted that there has been a substantial reduction in trade barriers along key corridors, with a commitment to further minimize the number of checkpoints in collaboration with law enforcement authorities.
Furthermore, the Acting Customs Commissioner mentioned that preparations are in progress to integrate the Customs Service’s Information Technology (IT) system with that of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). This move aims to curtail the smuggling of vehicles into the country.
Additionally, the Customs chief mentioned ongoing efforts to harmonize the list of prohibited items with Benin Republic, a measure designed to enhance the security function of the organization.