Border closure policy has vindicated me – Buhari

Commissions N19.6 bn customs headquarters

President Muhammadu Buhari says his decision to close the country’s land borders has boosted food production as Nigeria now consume what it produces.

Recalled that in 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari ordered the closure of the Country’s land borders which was heavily criticised by stakeholders.

Buhari however said although Nigerians criticised the move, it has yielded positive results and it is being appreciated.

The President stated this yesterday in Abuja while commissioning the new customs headquarters which cost N19.6 billion.

“I deliberately closed the borders because knowing Nigerians, they order rice, give some to Niger and the rest, and then they bring the rice here.

“With our potential, we have people, we have land, and weather – how many nations are as lucky as Nigeria in the world, very few nations.

“So closing that border, 1,600 kilometres, Nigerians insist they eat boiled rice – you eat what you grow or you die. I tried to make my point and later Nigerians appreciated it,” the President said.

In his remarks, the Comptroller General of Customs, Hameed Ali Rtd, said the increase in the salaries of customs personnel has improved their efficiency and loyalty to service.

“The 100 percent increase in the remuneration for officers and men of the service decisively made them less susceptible to corruption,” he said.

The Customs CG added the recent signing of the Customs Bill into law brings an end the old law which has been in force for the past 63 years.

“This landmark legislation represents a significant achievement for the Nigeria Customs Service and the entire nation. It provides us with a comprehensive legal framework that aligns with international best practices, strengthens our regulatory capabilities, and fosters trade facilitation,” Ali added.