More Trouble for Traders as FG Extends Border Closure to January 31, 2020
*Customs PRO gives indication closure may continue beyond Jan 31
*As prices of local rice soar
By Francis Ugwoke
There appears to be more trouble for small scale traders from both sides of Nigeria and the neighbouring country following the decision of the federal government to shift the closure of its land borders to January 31, 2020.
This was as many traders who have suffered huge economic loss following the closure were hoping that the reopening would be effected soon.
The federal government position dashing the hope of reopening was contained In a circular NCS/ENF/ABJ/221/S.45 dated November 1, 2019 and sent to all Sector Coordinators , Joint Border Operation Drill ( Exercise Swift Response).
It was signed by Mr Victor David Dimka, Comptroller (Enforcement), Customs Headquarters on behalf of Deputy Comptroller General (E,I &I).
Titled “Re- Extension of Exercise Swift Response”, the circular reads:
,” I am directed to inform you that it is observed that despite the overwhelming success of the Operation particularly, the security and economic benefits to the nation, a few strategic objectives are yet to be achieved.
“Against this background, Mr President has approved an extension of the Exercise to 31st January 2020.
“Consequently, you are required to convey the development to all personnel for their awareness and guidance.
” Meanwhile, allowances for personnel sustainance and fueling of vehicles for the period of extension will be paid as soon as possible.
“This is for your information and necessary action”.
The closure of the borders for about three months now has been a big pain to many traders from both ends of Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
The measure which is aimed at checking smuggling activities has also raised prices of most commodities in Nigeria up, including rice which sells for N27 per bag.
It is feared that the prices of rice will keep rising as a result of the closure.
Incidentally, Nigerian farmers have taken advantage of the closure and high demand to hike prices of their rice to about N20,000 per bag.
It would be recalled that the price for a 50kg local rise was between N10,000 and N12,000 in the South East.
The prices have now shot to N18,000 and about N20,000 in Lagos.
The Customs Public Relations Officer, Mr Joseph Attah who gave more insight into the memo indicated that the closure may continue beyond the January 31, 2020.
In a Whatsapp platform comment, Attah said “please note that the internal memo is referring to the end of this phase of the joint security Ex Swift Response and NOT a terminal date for the partial border closure.
“Security operation of this kind is usually in phases.
The partial border closure will continue until the set objectives are achieved”.
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