Olubadan Urges FG to Reopen Land Borders Under ECOWAS Trade Scheme

Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on the Federal Government to reopen Nigeria's land borders under the ECOWAS trade liberalization scheme to facilitate the movement of goods and individuals. This appeal was made during the farewell visit of Gambo Aliyu, the outgoing Controller of Customs in Oyo and Osun areas.

The borders were initially closed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019 but later reopened, excluding major ones. Ladoja commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its anti-smuggling efforts but highlighted the need to properly police the borders to curb the influx of illegal arms, drugs, substandard products, and prohibited items.

He also praised Aliyu for his diligent service and sought continued cooperation with his successor.