Sèmè–Kraké | 11 September 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Customs Administration of the Republic of Benin have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border trade and improving the efficiency of the Sèmè–Kraké corridor, following a high-level engagement at the Sèmè–Kraké Joint Border Post.
The engagement featured the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the Director-General of Benin Customs, Col. Raouf Malehossou, alongside government officials, business leaders and other stakeholders.
A major highlight was the unveiling and demonstration of Customs connectivity projects designed to enhance digital cooperation between the two countries. The initiative seeks to improve the exchange of customs information, strengthen cargo visibility, reduce duplication of procedures and facilitate faster and more seamless movement of legitimate goods across the Nigeria–Benin border.
The development forms part of broader efforts to harmonise trans-border trade procedures and deepen cooperation between the two Customs administrations. Both sides also emphasised the importance of addressing challenges confronting cross-border traders, particularly harassment, extortion, delays and other practices capable of undermining legitimate commerce.
The President of the Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BACCIMA), Alhaji Yahaya Oladiran Idris, was among the distinguished stakeholders present at the engagement.
His participation reinforced BACCIMA’s continued interest in developments affecting businesses, traders and investors operating within the Badagry–Sèmè corridor, one of Nigeria’s important gateways to the West African market.
In a significant moment during the programme, Alhaji Yahaya Oladiran Idris presented an award to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, on behalf of stakeholders.
The presentation recognised the CGC’s efforts towards Customs modernisation, trade facilitation and improved collaboration with stakeholders in the border and maritime trade ecosystem.
The engagement also highlighted the growing need for stronger coordination among Customs authorities, border agencies and the organised private sector to ensure that infrastructure and technology investments translate into tangible improvements for businesses and communities.
For BACCIMA, the ongoing Nigeria–Benin Customs collaboration represents an important development for the economic future of Badagry. Improved border processes, greater transparency and efficient movement of goods can contribute significantly to expanding trade, investment and employment opportunities within the corridor.
The Chamber therefore remains committed to constructive engagement with the Nigeria Customs Service, the Benin Customs Administration, government institutions and other stakeholders in advancing initiatives that promote seamless cross-border trade, inclusive economic growth and sustainable business development.
BACCIMA — Expanding Business Frontiers.