Reopening of Nigeria Borders: Nigeria Customs Service Clarifies the Situation.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) is urging Nigerians to disregard the widespread news claiming that the country’s borders have been reopened. The NSC is also dismissing a viral video that supposedly shows the reopening of the border, calling it a malicious attempt to mislead the public.
During a live show on the popular Human Rights Radio Brekete Family in Abuja, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the NSC, debunked the rumors and emphasized the importance of relying on authentic news from credible sources.
Maiwada clarified that certain approved borders, such as Idiroko and others, have been open for legitimate trade for over a year. The only closed borders are those located in the northeastern part of the country due to security concerns. However, the major land borders in the South-West, North-West, and Ikang Border in the South South are fully operational for legitimate trade.
Highlighting the significance of the NSC’s role in national development, Maiwada emphasized their contributions in revenue generation, combating smuggling, and facilitating trade. Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd) CFR, the NSC has achieved various milestones in revenue generation, restructuring, and reforms………………CONTINUE READING
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Maiwada highlighted the recent developments within the NSC, including the enactment of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. This new legislation aligns the NSC with the realities of 21st-century customs practices and provides a legal framework to enhance their performance.
He further noted that the recruitment process for the Nigeria Customs Service has undergone changes to ensure transparency and adherence to the principles of federal character.
Regarding technology, CSC Maiwada emphasized the NSC’s commitment to embracing modern systems in their processes and procedures. Recognizing the importance of automation, they have implemented various initiatives, such as the Fast-Track 2.0 program for compliant traders and non-intrusive inspection, among others.
The Nigeria Customs Service clarifies that the borders in the country are not open, except for approved borders in specific regions. The NSC remains committed to its crucial role in revenue generation, combating smuggling, and facilitating trade.
