By Milcah Tanimu

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has urged residents and stakeholders in the Illela border community in Sokoto to comply with regulations as the border with Niger Republic anticipates reopening. Kamal Muhammad, the NCS comptroller for the Sokoto/Zamfara area command, visited the Illela border station on Tuesday to assess the situation and engage with local marketers and residents.

Muhammad noted that the decision by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to lift sanctions on Niger Republic could lead to the reopening of Nigeria’s borders. His inspection visit aimed to ensure that all necessary arrangements were in place for the impending border reopening.

He highlighted the reasons for the visit, stating, “The lifting of ECOWAS sanctions on Niger Republic and subsequent restoration of power supply to the neighbouring country are the reasons for my visit to ensure that all is set towards the reopening of the Illela border as we await the last order.”

While emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulations, Muhammad cautioned against smuggling activities, emphasizing that such illegal practices hinder economic growth. The closure of land and air borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic was part of the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS in July 2023 after military leaders ousted the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. However, recent developments have seen the lifting of some sanctions against Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, and Mali by ECOWAS.