In compliance with the directive from the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the newly appointed Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Kebbi Command, Comptroller Iheanacho Ernest Ojike, has officially reopened the Kamba Border for international trade.
On Friday, the 15th of March 2024, amidst stakeholders, district heads, and representatives from sister agencies, Comptroller Ojike emphasized the strategic importance of the Kamba Border in revenue generation for Kebbi State.
While reopening the border, Comptroller Ojike underscored the aim of facilitating legitimate trade to contribute positively to national development, highlighting the imperative to adhere strictly to customs laws to prevent economic destabilization and uphold national security.
He reassured stakeholders of the Command’s commitment to facilitating seamless trade processes within the confines of the law, stressing the importance of proper declaration and payment of appropriate duties to the Federal Government.
Furthermore, Comptroller Ojike reiterated the prohibition of food grain exports to mitigate the effects of food scarcity within the nation.
In response, Alh. Mamuda Fana, the district head of Kamba, commended the federal government’s initiative, expressing optimism for economic opportunities for cross-border businesses and small-scale enterprises within the community, pledging to discourage illegitimate trade activities.
To enhance collaboration and cooperation, Comptroller Ojike paid courtesy visits to key stakeholders, including the Emir of Gwandu, Major General Muhammed Bashir Iliyasu (Rtd), and other sister agencies. These visits aimed to solicit their support in ensuring smooth cross-border trade operations, combating smuggling activities, and enhancing security within host communities.