Niger reopens borders with Nigeria

After months of closure due to political upheaval and subsequent sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Niger has finally reopened its borders with Nigeria in the regions of Diffa, Tahoua, Maradi and Dosso.

The closure, triggered by a coup d’état on July 26 in Niger that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, had created significant disruptions along the 1,608-kilometre stretch of the land boundary, impacting trade and movement between the two neighbouring countries. The two countries heavily rely on each other for economic and social activities, among others.

The Niger-Nigeria border is 1,608 kilometres, stretching from Sokoto through Kebbi, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe and Borno states.

In a recent development, the Nigerien Ministry of Interior issued directives to the governors of the border regions, instructing them to facilitate the reopening at precisely 12am.

The announcement, conveyed through radio messages and social networks, marks a significant step towards restoring normalcy in cross-border activities.

To ensure the safety and security of citizens, the ministry has mandated the governors to implement stringent controls and security measures along the reopened borders.

This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential security threats and uphold law and order in the border regions.

While Nigeria had already lifted its border restrictions on March 13, 2024 in compliance with ECOWAS directives, Niger’s delayed response had raised concerns among stakeholders.

The reopening comes as a relief to traders, commuters and communities on both sides of the border, fostering renewed economic and social interactions.

However, despite Benin Republic’s promptly implementing ECOWAS directives, the border with Niger remains closed on the Beninese side, particularly impacting trade routes rich in uranium resources.

The decision to reopen the borders with Nigeria underscores Niger’s commitment to regional cooperation and economic integration despite the transitional authorities’ earlier security concerns.