President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate reopening of the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State, restoring a key trade route between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
The announcement was made public on February 7, 2026, during a one-day official visit by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in Birnin Kebbi.
While addressing officers and personnel, Adeniyi cautioned against collusion with smugglers or illegal groups.
“Any action that weakens this policy will not be tolerated,” he warned.
He explained that the reopening is intended to ease the movement of goods, improve border security, and ensure cargo clearance within 48 hours.
Adeniyi added that advanced technology will be deployed to track goods and prevent diversion from approved destinations.
Regional Trade and Transit
The Customs chief confirmed that Tinubu has approved the movement of trucks through Benin Republic and Kebbi State into Niger Republic.
He said modern monitoring systems will make it easier to supervise transit activities and reduce abuse of the process.
“Transporters and traders must strictly follow transit rules. Anyone who breaks the regulations will face serious penalties,” Adeniyi stated.
He warned that failure to comply could disrupt trade and damage cooperation between Nigeria and its neighbours.
Adeniyi was warmly received by officers of the Kebbi Area Command. He was accompanied by senior officials of the Benin Republic Customs Service, led by Imura Idirisou, along with other members of the delegation.
The reopening of the Samiya border is expected to boost regional commerce and strengthen Nigeria’s trade ties with Benin and Niger.
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