A key border route between Nigeria and Benin Republic has been shut down by President Patrice Talon, causing serious disruption to trade and movement across the region.
The closed route, which links Taberu in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, to the nearby village of Tanu in Benin, was reportedly blocked due to rising concerns about agricultural product exports moving through unofficial paths.
The Benin-Nigeria border closure is said to have been implemented to control the illegal transportation of cashew nuts and soya beans.
Residents and local leaders have reported a sharp drop in trade activity since the shutdown.
The move has impacted several traders, particularly those who rely on informal routes to move goods.
Moreover, tariffs have also been increased for those using official channels.
Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, the Emir of Yashikira, Alhaji Usman Umoru-Seriki, confirmed that traders are now restricted to legal routes and face much higher fees.
“He only allowed the transportation of cashew nuts and soya beans through legal routes and imposed a higher tariff on these products,” the Emir noted.
Furthermore, the Emir added that the regulation is not new and follows earlier patterns from the Talon administration.
“Traders who wish to bring soya beans and cashew nuts are now required to pay higher duties, and only legal routes are permitted.
This isn’t the first time President Talon has taken such action he closed the border with Togo last year.”
Meanwhile, an immigration officer, who asked not to be named, also confirmed the closure.
In addition, this decision also shows how some West African nations are tightening their borders to enforce trade discipline and national interest.
Therefore, while the affected communities may feel the pinch of this policy, Benin’s leadership appears focused on safeguarding its economic structure.
Moreover, it aims to ensure that exports follow proper documentation and taxation processes.
