Nigeria-Benin borders reopening: Good news for traders and carriers

The borders between Nigeria and Benin have been reopened since Wednesday 16 December after months of closure. An act welcomed by traders and transporters.

They are happy because activities will resume after several months of suspension. These are traders, transporters and users who carry out small activities.

“Crossing the border again, is the best gift anyone could give me at the end of 2020”, said Jean K., cart puller.“I am very satisfied. Finally, I can resume my activities”, rejoices Florence, seller at the border of Sème Kraké. ” I can only express my joy. Since we closed the border even find 1000 FCFA per day was a headache. I can now work to feed my little family”, confides Gilles, trader.

“Who cannot rejoice in this good news ? Anyway, I am in joy”, adds Christian, carrier.

“Benin is back” dixit Malick Gomina, Mayor of Djougou

“The management of the crisis arising from the closure of the Nigerian borders by the Beninese authorities reinforces our pride as Beninese” declared the mayor of Djougou relayed by Patrimoine-media.info. “We can be small but worthy. Congratulations to President Talon who strengthened the resilience of our economy. We certainly need Nigeria but not in a vassal position”, he indicated while emphasizing “From now on, relations between our two States will be based on mutual respect.. And that is priceless. We could not yet accept that history repeats itself as the kingdoms of Abomey and Abéokouta once did.”.

Note that Nigeria had unilaterally closed its borders with Benin since 20 August 2019.

Damien TOLOMISSI