The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture has applauded plans by the Federal Government to reopen the nation’s land borders soon.
NACCIMA Director-General, Ayo Olukanni, explained that the planned reopening of the border would aid trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). The border was shut on August 20, 2019, a move the Federal Government said was necessary to curb smuggling and boost local production of goods.
The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, had told State House Correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday that the borders would soon be reopened.
“Mr President has set up a committee that I chair, alongside the minister of foreign affairs and other ministers including interior and agencies such customs, immigration and other security services to review and advise him on the issue of border closure.
“The committee has just completed its work and we will be submitting our report. I have signed my copy; I gave everybody to sign between Wednesday and tomorrow Thursday so that we submit the report to Mr President,” Zainab had said.
She noted that the President would make a formal pronouncement after receiving the report.