The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has sealed a strategic partnership with Kebbi government to implement President Bola Tinubu’s approved transit corridor for goods bound for Niger Republic through Benin Republic.

The Comptroller-General of NCS, Bashir Adewale-Adeniyi, made this known during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi on Saturday.

He said the initiative would address transit bottlenecks, safeguard national security while promising 48-hour clearance with cutting-edge technology to prevent cargo diversion.

“President Tinubu has given us the mandate to allow trucks transit to Niger Republic through Benin Republic and Kebbi.

“We are deploying modern technology to ensure goods meant for specific destinations are not diverted,” Mr Adewale- Adeniyi said.

He warned that economic operators who violate transit regulations would face stiff sanctions, stressing that non-compliance would create non-tariff barriers and undermine trust between nations.

The customs boss, who received a rousing welcome from Mr Idris and two former governors within 24 hours of notice, commended Kebbi’s brotherhood spirit and strategic importance to Nigeria’s security architecture.

“When we speak of Kebbi, we reference the historic Gwandu Emirate whose influence extends across Nigeria and into neighbouring Benin and Niger Republics.

“There is a saying that when Kebbi coughs, the entire country sneezes,” he said.

Mr Adewale-Adeniyi emphasised that the bilateral engagement aimed to strengthen cooperation on transit goods movement, improve information sharing, address border security challenges, and ensure legitimate trade contributed optimally to economic growth.

He revealed that cargoes from Apapa ports and Nigerian airports bound for neighbouring countries would be processed and moved within 48 hours without compromising security or economic interests.

The customs boss also noted that security threats were coordinated by actors who rely on narcotics, smuggling networks, and weapon trafficking, stressing that inter-agency coordination was critical to staying ahead of criminals.

“For us to be ahead of them, we must be even more coordinated.

“Kebbi has the most excellent network of inter-agency coordination, as the state government renders logistical support to all security agencies.

“Under the new framework, trucks will pay a token fee for infrastructure maintenance in transit areas, particularly along the Tsamiya Corridor in Bagudu Local Government Area.

“The Customs Service will streamline documentation and remove bottlenecks along major corridors, including Illela-Sokoto-Kamba-Niger Republic routes, and pathways linking Apapa ports and airports to neighbouring counties,” the C-G said.

Responding, Mr Idris assured that Kebbi was ever ready to partner with the federal government to ensure smooth operations.

“We are not surprised because we know that when Mr President says something, he means it and will follow through.

“We will provide the necessary social amenities, infrastructure, and ensure roads are motorable,” Mr Idris assured.

The governor commended Mr Adewale- Adeniyi’s leadership style and thanked the Benin Republic delegation for their collaboration.

(NAN)