Atiku Vows to Reopen Borders, Revive Regional Trade If Elected

Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress ADC Atiku Abubakar, has vowed to reopen Nigeria’s land borders with neighbouring countries, saying the move would revive cross-border trade and restore economic opportunities for communities in the northern states.

Atiku said the border closures had severely affected states bordering Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Benin Republic, particularly young Nigerians who depended on legitimate cross-border businesses for their livelihoods.

“The Northern states bordering Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Benin Republic have suffered greatly from the closure of these borders. Many young people engaged in legitimate cross-border trade have been pushed into bankruptcy. That is why I said I will reopen the borders,” Atiku said.

He said reopening the borders would be part of his plan to stimulate regional commerce and create more balanced economic opportunities across the country.

“I will reopen our borders to revive regional trade and rebalance the nation’s economic opportunities,” he declared.

According to Atiku, restoring legitimate cross-border economic activities would help revive businesses, expand opportunities for young people and strengthen economic ties between Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

On the 7th of February, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the reopening of Tsamiya Border in Kebbi State, while other land borders remain closed.