The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has officially announced the closure of all land borders linking Nigeria with Niger Republic due to the recent coup d’etat in Niger.
The NCS’s Acting Comptroller General, Mr Bashir Adewale at the Jibia border in Katsina, disclosed that the decision for the blockage of the borders is in compliance with the directive of the Economic Community of West Africa States to suspend movement of cargos until further notice.
He added that as part of measures to ensure 100 per cent compliance, they will sensitise the border communities.
Adeniyi said the decision was taken for the interest of peace and stability between the two countries, he told the deputy governor of Katsina state.
NAN reports that on July 27, in a swift response to military coup in Niger Republic, the ECOWAS also enforced a no-flight zone over the country.
The sanctions include the suspension of trade, diplomacy and financial services to the country; a no-fly zone has also been declared over Niger and its military hierarchy.
This significant move which includes air and land border closure, is seen as a crucial reaction to the recent ascendancy of the junta, which has stirred significant unrest in the country and poses a threat to political stability within the region.