ECOWAS Sanctions Lift: Customs Prepares For Border Reopening

In preparation for the reopening of Illela border, the customs area controller (CAC), Sokoto/Zamfara Command, Kamal Mohammed, has embarked on a working visit to Illela border station to ensure that all is set in anticipation of the reopening order.

The controller who was accompanied by his management team while addressing stakeholders stated that, “with the lift of ECOWAS sanctions on Niger Republic, and subsequent restoration of power supply to Niger Republic, it is on this premise I came to ensure all is set towards the re-opening of the Illela border as, we await the last order.”

The CAC also charged stakeholders and security agencies at the border station on the need for cooperation especially in the area of intelligence and information sharing and joint operation towards safeguarding the nation’s border, stating that “with collaboration, each agency will be able to effectively and efficiently fulfill its assigned mandate.”

Acknowledging the patience of the customs licenced agents during the seven months border closure, Kamal Mohammed said, “We know it has not been easy for you, but God willing, it will soon become history.”

Mohammed also thanked the Illela community for their hospitality stating that as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the service has awarded contract for the construction of a primary health care centre at the border station, adding that when completed, it will cater for both officers and the Illela community.