The Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has announced that Nigerian importers will soon be able to clear their goods in the ports of Cotonou, Benin Republic. This development comes after a two-day meeting between customs officials from both countries to strengthen trade relations and combat smuggling.
Adewale Adeniyi explained that this agreement builds trust in the customs systems of Benin Republic, allowing Nigerian importers to use Cotonou ports and clear their goods there. They will have the opportunity to pay duties for taxable goods in Cotonou, and once cleared, these goods can enter Nigeria freely.
Regarding concerns about vehicle smuggling, Adeniyi clarified that this arrangement applies to all goods arriving in Cotonou ports, not just vehicles. Duties can be assessed and paid there, similar to how goods enter Nigeria through Lagos or Port Harcourt. While the specific steps to implement this agreement are still being worked out, both countries aim to establish timelines for achieving this milestone.
Overall, this partnership is expected to improve customs administration, facilitate trade, and enhance regional cooperation between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
