Tinubu Directs Reopening of Nigeria–Benin Border

President Bola Tinubu has directed that the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State, connecting Nigeria to the Republic of Benin, be reopened immediately.

The order was made public on February 7, 2026, in Birnin Kebbi during a one-day official visit by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in the state capital.

While addressing officers and personnel of the command, Adeniyi cautioned them against working with smugglers or any illegal groups to frustrate the Federal Government’s directive.

He warned that any action that weakens the policy would not be tolerated.

He explained that the reopening of the border is aimed at easing the movement of goods, improving security, and ensuring that cargo is cleared within 48 hours.

He added that advanced technology is being introduced to track goods and stop them from being diverted from their approved destinations.

Adeniyi further stated that President Tinubu has approved the movement of trucks through the Benin Republic and Kebbi State to the Niger Republic.

According to him, the use of modern systems will make it easier to monitor transit activities and reduce abuse of the process.

He also warned transporters and traders to strictly follow transit rules, noting that anyone who breaks the regulations will face serious penalties.

He added that failure to comply could create trade problems and damage cooperation between neighbouring countries.

The Customs boss received a warm welcome from 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.