Adenuga moves to dismantle multiple checkpoints, boost cross-border trade at Seme

 

Maureen Aguta

 

The Customs Area Controller of Seme Border Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has launched a decisive campaign to eliminate multiple checkpoints along the Lagos–Seme corridor in a bid to enhance trade facilitation and strengthen Nigeria’s economic integration with the West African subregion.

Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) on Tuesday in Seme, Adenuga decried the proliferation of roadblocks between Seme and Lagos, describing them as a major obstacle to free trade, business efficiency, and regional competitiveness.

 

“From Seme to Agbara, we counted over 100 checkpoints manned by various agencies. This is not good for the economy—it slows down movement, discourages traders, and increases the cost of doing business,” he said.

 

Adenuga contrasted the situation with that of Benin Republic, noting that the route from Seme to Cotonou has no checkpoints, with security personnel relying on simple whistle signals to stop vehicles when necessary.

 

“In Benin, movement is seamless. But on our side, the journey that should take 30 minutes can stretch for hours. We cannot promote exports or regional trade under such conditions,” he lamented.

 

To address the challenge, the Controller revealed that the Command has set up a dedicated task force to identify and dismantle unauthorized checkpoints and improve coordination among security agencies along the corridor. He stressed that the Nigeria Customs Service, as the lead agency at the frontier, was already engaging with sister agencies to harmonize operations and eliminate duplication of duties.

 

“There are only two approved Customs checkpoints along the corridor. Any team operating outside those points without clearance will face sanctions,” Adenuga warned, adding that the measure aims to restore efficiency, cut delays, and promote legitimate commerce.

 

He disclosed that exports through the Seme border have risen significantly in recent months, with Nigerian-manufactured goods increasingly finding markets across West Africa. “Every week, over 400 Dangote trucks move through this route to other countries,” he said, noting that efficient border management would further boost industrial growth, job creation, and youth empowerment.

 

Adenuga also underscored the importance of media collaboration in driving transparency and accountability within Customs operations. “If we don’t work together with the media, those in authority may not know what is happening on the ground. Your feedback helps us improve,” he said.

 

He urged journalists to continue highlighting genuine trade concerns, assuring that the Command’s doors remain open for communication and stakeholder engagement.

 

“It’s not about harassing small traders or women carrying household goods,” he emphasized. “Our focus is on facilitating legitimate trade. When trade thrives, the economy grows, and everyone benefits.”

 

The Customs chief reaffirmed his commitment to reforming the border environment, ensuring that Nigeria’s busiest land border regains its status as a hub of cross-border commerce rather than a checkpoint of bureaucracy and extortion.

 

“We are determined to make the Seme corridor a model for trade facilitation in West Africa,” he concluded.