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Sahel tensions escalate as Niger imposes fresh trade curbs on Nigeria
Authorities in the Republic of Niger have introduced new restrictions on goods entering the country from Nigeria, a move they say is driven by growing security concerns across the Sahel.
- Niger’s military government has ordered mandatory inspections for all goods entering from Nigeria.
- The directive targets miscellaneous cargo, which must now be offloaded at designated entry points.
- The move follows fresh security concerns, including a failed coup attempt in Benin.
- Nigeria denies claims that its military aircraft violated Burkina Faso’s airspace.
The directive, issued by Colonel Mohamed Yacouba Siddo of Niger’s Customs Formalities Corporation, requires all cargo from Nigeria to be offloaded and inspected at official entry points before traveling further inland.
The circular became public after it was shared on X by security analyst Brant Grant. It states that goods classified as miscellaneous items will be subject to the most stringent checks.
Colonel Siddo stressed that officers must enforce the rules without exception, noting that goods will be cleared only if supported by valid documentation from recognized ports of discharge.
“For security requirements, all goods originating from Nigeria must be unloaded and inspected at the entry offices before any transit formalities,” the directive said.
Trade between the two neighbours, which typically spans foodstuffs, manufactured products, fuel, and consumer goods, has already slowed since the Nigerien military seized power in July 2023.
Although the new order does not include financial penalties, the additional inspection steps are likely to increase logistics costs for Nigerian exporters.
Border traders say the cost of moving a standard truckload of miscellaneous goods, usually around ₦1.5 million, roughly $1,050, could rise due to delays and extended handling times.
In another development amid heightened instability in West Africa, a failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin on Sunday, December 7, has added to regional unease.
At the same time, the Confederation of Sahel States claims that Burkina Faso detained eleven Nigerian military personnel for allegedly violating its airspace.
Nigeria has rejected the allegation, with the Nigerian Air Force saying the aircraft involved made an emergency landing due to a technical fault and had complied fully with airspace procedures.