The federal government has given permission to Dangote Cement and BUA Group, another cement company to begin export to Niger Republic and Togo through its land borders, for the first time since its borders were shut ten months ago.
Michel Puchercos, Managing Director of Dangote Cement, had on Monday informed investors that the company had resumed cement export, following a government issued waiver to the firm.
The president Muhammadu Buhari-led administration, had shut Nigeria’s land borders in August, 2019, citing neighboring countries were flouting rules on importation of banned products into the country by encouraging smugglers. Thr government also said it seeks to encourage local markets and farmers by shutting the land borders.
Joseph Attah, Spokesman for the Nigerian Customs, confirmed during a phone chat that, BUA Group and a gas company have received presidential approval to move goods across the land borders. He however failed to give further details.
But in an internal memo signed by Dimka V.D, Custom Comptroller (Enforcement, Hqtrs) on behalf of Deputy Comptroller-General (E,I&I) and sighted online, the Nigerian Government approved the movement of BUA Cement trucks to Niger Republic.
“I am directed to forward herewith a letter from the Office of The National Security Adviser referenced NSA/227/C dates 17th June, 2020 on the above subject matter.
“The trucks will exit and return through Illela Border station in Sokoto State.
“Attached herewith is a list with names of drivers and truck license numbers and other relevant details for ease of reference.
“This is forwarded for information and strict compliance, please,” the memo addressed to Custom Zonal Coordinator in charge of Sokoto/Zamfara commands read.
Although the blockade encouraged the consumption of locally grown produce such as rice, it however, hurt the economies of west African states, with many governments, appealing to Nigeria to rescind on its decision and open its land borders, as the closure, is having a negative effect on the economy.
