National President/Chairman OPSN, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON,

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for directing the immediate reopening of the Samiya International Border in Kebbi State, describing the move as a strategic boost to cross-border trade, regional integration and economic growth.

In a statement signed by its National President and Chairman of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), Engr. Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON, the association said the decision reflects a timely and forward-looking policy aimed at revitalising legitimate commercial activities and strengthening economic cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

The directive was announced during the official visit of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to the Nigeria Customs Service Area Command in Birnin Kebbi.

According to NACCIMA, the reopening of the border is expected to unlock significant trade opportunities and stimulate economic activities along the corridor, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to regional trade integration.

NACCIMA also welcomed the accompanying compliance measures, including the deployment of modern cargo monitoring technology, improved transit controls, and strict enforcement against smuggling and regulatory abuses.

The group said the emphasis on faster cargo clearance timelines and coordinated inter-agency oversight demonstrates a balanced approach that promotes trade facilitation without compromising national security and revenue protection.

“As a leading advocate for cross-border trade and regional integration, NACCIMA recognises the far-reaching developmental impact of functional and well-regulated border posts,” the statement noted, highlighting potential benefits for border community livelihoods, agricultural and commodity value chains, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), informal sector traders, and regional food security.

The association further observed that the reopening of the Samiya International Border sends a strong policy signal that technology-driven and well-coordinated border operations can enhance economic competitiveness, deepen bilateral and ECOWAS trade integration, and promote social and cultural exchange.

Reaffirming its support for the policy direction, NACCIMA pledged continued collaboration with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to ensure that the reopening translates into sustainable trade expansion, inclusive economic growth and strengthened regional cooperation.

The association added that effective implementation of the policy would not only stimulate commerce in border communities but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader economic diversification and regional leadership objectives