The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized on Saturday that only President Bola Tinubu holds the authority to reopen borders in the country. He made these remarks during an interactive session with members of the Kongolam border community in Mai’adua Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Adeniyi addressed the ongoing agitation for border reopening, assuring the community of ongoing engagements and consultations on the matter. “Once consultations are concluded, a decision will be taken on the matter,” he assured.

Highlighting the Service’s commitment to promoting economic prosperity through free trade, Adeniyi mentioned proactive measures to reduce checkpoints along border posts and foster synergy between Service personnel and traders.

Acknowledging the concerns of border communities regarding checkpoints and border closure, Adeniyi reiterated the Service’s adherence to law and delegated powers. He mentioned communicating the communities’ concerns to the President, who directed the release of confiscated food items for sale exclusively in Nigerian markets.

Adeniyi stressed collaboration with the Police and other agencies to address obstacles hindering free trade in border areas. “We will continue to monitor and ensure that food produced in Nigeria remains and is consumed in Nigeria,” he emphasized.

He underlined the importance of collective efforts in addressing the national emergency of food insufficiency, urging compliance with laws prohibiting food item exportation during this period.