The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service(CGC), Mr Bashir Adewale, on Thursday inaugurated the Kano Trade Office of the Tsamiya Dry Port (Kebbi) Initiative.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command of the service,SC Saidu Nuruddeen, in Kano on Thursday.
Adewale, who was represented by the Zonal Coordinator of Zone B, ACG Sambo Dangaladima,expressed delight at the opening of the Trade Office in Kano, a major commercial hub.
He was accompanied by the Customs Area Controller of Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Mr Dauda Ibrahim Chana and Comptroller FOU B, Mr Ahmad Shuaibu; CAC Kaduna, Mr Ahmed Abe and CAC Katsina, Mr Idris Abba-Aji.
According to Nuruddeen,the inauguration of the port was a milestone that marks a significant step towards boosting regional trade networks and economic growth as well as development between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
He said the trade office underscored Kano’s importance as a key centre for commerce and highlighted the need for streamlined business processes in the region.
Nuruddeen also said that the initiative was driven by the need to optimise the economic potential of the region.
It was also to enhance the efficiency of trade logistics, and straighten Nigeria’s position as a central trade hub in West Africa.
“This development follows a high-level inter-ministerial meeting between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Benin Republic in May 2024.
”It is aimed at fast-tracking the operationalisation of the Sagbama-Tsamiya border post,” he said.
Nuruddeen said the service under the leadership of Adewale, remained committed to implementing and enforcing policies to achieve economic growth and development in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
“This initiative demonstrates the Federal Government’s dedication to promoting economic integration and trade facilitation in the region.
“It is expected that the Kano trade office will play a critical role in transforming Northern Nigeria into a vibrant trade hub, driving economic growth and solidifying Nigeria’s leadership in West African trade,” the spokesman said.
It added that the gathering was attended by stakeholders from both countries including Alhaji Isa Salihu, who has remained instrumental to ensuring its success.( NAN)
