The federal government has reopened the Kamba land border after five years of closure, signalling a return of normalcy at the border town between Nigeria’s Katsina state and the Republic of Niger.
The reopening of the border followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the immediate resumption of cross-border trade across several key entry points.
The Kamba border, along with others nationwide, was shut down in 2019 by the order of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The closure was aimed to curb widespread smuggling of illegal goods and address security concerns along the borders.
However, it also disrupted trade flows, impacting local economies and livelihoods in border communities like Kamba.
“Kamba is a strategic border post that generates a major share of Kebbi’s revenue,” said Iheanacho Ojike, Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Kebbi State Command.
Addressing the reopening ceremony, attended by dignitaries including the district head of Kamba,
Alhaji Mamuda Fana, Comptroller Ojike emphasised that the aim was to facilitate legitimate trade that benefits national development.
“This reopening is not an invitation for prohibited items that can jeopardise our economy and security,” he clarified. The NCS is committed to streamlining customs procedures at Kamba to ensure a smooth experience for compliant traders.
The Kamba community enthusiastically welcomed the news. “This is a new wave of hope for our people who rely on cross-border trade,” said Alhaji Mamuda Fana. He added that the reopening will benefit not just large-scale businesses but also small traders within Kamba town, while pledging to sensitise the community on the importance of adhering to legitimate trade practices.
