The Nigeria Customs Service, Sokoto-Zamfara State area command, has announced that it is on standby for the reopening of the Nigeria-Niger border situated at Illela Sokoto state.
The Board Chairman of the Nigeria Customs Broadcasting Network (NCBN) Limited, Kamal Mohammed, during a visit at the border post, disclosed that he was at the station to ensure that all was set in expectation of the last order.
The comptroller, who was accompanied by his management team, while speaking to stakeholders at the entry point, said, “With the lift of ECOWAS penalty on Niger Republic and following restoration of power supply to Niger Republic, it is on this place I came to ensure all is ready towards the reopening of the Illela border while we hold back the last order.”
He however urged stakeholders and security forces at the border station for cooperation, specifically in the area of intelligence and information dissemination and joint performances towards protecting the nation’s border, while stating that with partnership, each agency will be able to successfully and proficiently fulfill its assigned duties.
He thanked the Customs Licence Agents for their tolerance during the seven-month border shutdown, saying, “We know it has not been peaceful for you, but God willing, it will soon become history.”
Comptroller Mohammed also appreciated the Illela Community for their warm reception, noting that, as part of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the service has granted the building of a primary healthcare facility at the border station, and when completed, it would serve both officers and the Illela community.
The comptroller also paid a courtesy visit to the Sarkin Gobir of Gwadabawa, Muhammad Zayyanu, urging the traditional ruler to advise his subjects against smuggling.
