The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) opened the Illela border in Sokoto State on Tuesday, January 5.
The reopening ceremony was performed by the customs area controller in charge of the Sokoto/Zamfara command, Abdulhamid Ma’aji.
He said the federal government’s ban on rice importation into Nigeria was still in force. The ceremony was witnessed by dignitaries from Nigeria and Niger Republic.
The border was opened three weeks after the federal executive council directed that it and three others be reopened for transit and commercial purposes.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ma’aji said economic activities would return to Illela and its environs following the reopening of the border.
The area commander said: “The closure of the border was because of abuse of protocols. What is now expected is adherence to rules and guidelines.
“Now that the border is opened for operation now, let me appeal to every residents of Illela and Kwani for their cooperation. I want to assure you that the Nigeria Customs Service and its sister agencies are ready to be professional in discharging our duties.”
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