Tinubu orders Customs to permit transit trucks to Niger through Benin, Kebbi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to allow trucks transporting transit goods to the Niger Republic to move through the Benin Republic corridor and Kebbi State.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed the directive on Saturday during a courtesy visit to Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, in Birnin Kebbi.

According to Adeniyi, the presidential order is aimed at improving regional trade, easing cross-border logistics, and removing long-standing bottlenecks, while still safeguarding Nigeria’s security and economic interests.

He explained that the initiative would streamline transit cargo operations and enhance monitoring systems to prevent misuse or diversion of goods.

The new arrangement will particularly support the movement of cargo originating from Apapa seaports and Nigerian airports and destined for neighbouring countries.

Adeniyi noted that the Customs Service plans to deploy technology-driven tracking systems to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the transit process.

“President Tinubu has given us the mandate to allow trucks to transit to Niger Republic through Benin Republic and Kebbi,” he said, adding that modern monitoring tools would help ensure that goods reach their approved destinations.

He also warned that operators who violate transit regulations would face strict penalties, stressing that non-compliance could create trade barriers and damage trust between Nigeria and its neighbours.

The Customs Service is targeting a 48-hour clearance window for eligible transit cargo under the new policy.