Following the Federal Government of Nigeria’s decision to reopen the Nigeria-Niger Republic land and air borders, Nigerien authorities have maintained silence while keeping their entry points closed.
The announcement of the border reopening came on March 13, 2024, by Nigeria, with security agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) facilitating movement along border communities. However, counterparts on the Nigerien side have not reciprocated, leaving their borders shut.
Residents, particularly those on the Nigerian side, have expressed hope and optimism regarding the reopening. They believe it will ease trading activities and improve livelihoods, especially considering President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to reopen the borders in alignment with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) decision.
In response to Tinubu’s directive, the Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Kemi Nandap, instructed the lifting of restrictions on movement at Nigeria-Niger borders. Despite these efforts, the situation remains challenging on the Nigerien side.
In various Nigerian states along the border, such as Katsina, Jigawa, and Kebbi, the reopening has been met with mixed responses. While some areas have seen progress, others still face obstacles. In Katsina, for instance, the town of Kongolam near Daura reported continued closure by Nigerien authorities, frustrating local residents.
Similarly, the Maigatari border in Jigawa State witnessed partial reopening, with Nigerian security officials enforcing the directive while Nigerien counterparts kept their side closed. Despite this, residents remain hopeful for full normalization of activities once both sides open their borders.
In Kebbi State, however, the situation remains unchanged, with borders still shut on both sides despite the presidential directive. Residents express frustration over the lack of progress and hope for a resolution soon.
In Sokoto State, particularly in Illela town, residents welcome the border reopening, anticipating a return to normalcy after enduring hardships during the closure. The move is expected to revive cross-border trade and alleviate economic challenges faced by border communities.
However, traders in Borno and Yobe States express skepticism, citing ongoing challenges such as high exchange rates and strict regulations in Niger. They believe that reopening the border may not significantly impact prices or trade dynamics unless underlying issues are addressed.
Despite the reopening, challenges persist, especially concerning coordination between Nigerian and Nigerien authorities. The hope remains that mutual understanding and cooperation will prevail, leading to the full resumption of cross-border activities and improved relations between the two nations.
