Latest news on nigeria border closure
Here are the latest news updates on the Nigeria border closure:
Latest Developments:
- Extension of Border Closure: The Nigerian government has extended the closure of its borders with Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger until further notice. The initial closure was announced on August 20, 2019, and was supposed to last for four weeks.
- Economic Impact: The border closure has had a significant impact on the Nigerian economy, with the country's trade volume declining by 40% in the first quarter of 2020. The closure has also led to a shortage of essential goods, including food and fuel.
- Smuggling: The Nigerian government has accused neighboring countries of smuggling goods into the country, including rice, vehicles, and petroleum products. The government claims that the smuggling is costing the country billions of naira in revenue.
- Diplomatic Efforts: The Nigerian government has been engaging in diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue with neighboring countries. In recent weeks, there have been meetings between Nigerian officials and their counterparts from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.
- Economic Benefits: Despite the challenges posed by the border closure, the Nigerian government claims that the move has led to an increase in local production and a reduction in the country's trade deficit.
Recent Quotes:
- "The border closure is a necessary evil to protect our economy and our people. We cannot continue to allow our neighbors to take advantage of us." - Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari
- "We are working to resolve the issue with Nigeria, but we cannot compromise on our sovereignty and the integrity of our borders." - Benin President Patrice Talon
- "The border closure is causing hardship for our people, but we are willing to work with Nigeria to find a solution." - Cameroonian Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute
Recent Statistics:
- Nigeria's trade volume declined by 40% in the first quarter of 2020 due to the border closure.
- The country's revenue from customs duties declined by 30% in the same period.
- The border closure has led to a shortage of essential goods, including food and fuel, in many parts of the country.
Recent Events:
- On June 24, 2020, the Nigerian government announced that it would begin to allow the importation of essential goods, including food and medicine, through the borders.
- On July 1, 2020, the government announced that it would begin to allow the export of goods, including agricultural products, through the borders.
- On July 15, 2020, the government announced that it would begin to allow the importation of vehicles through the borders, but only for vehicles that meet certain safety and environmental standards.
I hope this information is helpful.