A week after the Nigeria Customs Service reopened the Illela land border between Nigeria and Niger Republic, the government of Niger Republic reciprocated by opening its border in Konni for operations on Friday.
According to Nuhu Samaila, a source briefing from Konni, Niger Republic, the border was officially declared open at 12 pm on Friday.
He commended the leadership of the country, particularly the military junta, for responding to the people’s desires by ensuring the border’s reopening.
Samaila expressed appreciation, stating, “It is commendable that the government has finally taken the necessary steps.”
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He expressed hope that this move would significantly contribute to the economies of both countries by facilitating increased trading activities between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
In related developments, last Wednesday, the Federal Government restored the supply of electricity to the Republic of Niger following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to reopen Nigeria’s land and air borders with the neighboring country.
The decision to suspend power supply to Niger had been made on August 3, 2023, as part of sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in response to a coup that ousted Niger’s President-elect, Mohamed Bazoum, in July 2023.
ECOWAS, led by Tinubu, imposed sanctions on Niger following Bazoum’s arrest and declaration of his deposition by officers of the Niger Presidential Guard on July 26, 2023.
In line with the President’s directive to immediately reopen the land border with Niger Republic, Iheanacho Ojike, the Controller of Nigeria Customs Service, Kebbi State command, reopened the Kamba land border.
Ojike emphasized the strategic importance of the Kamba border, noting its significant role in revenue generation for Kebbi State.
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