Nigeria and Benin Republic have finalized agreements to commence operations at the Tsamiya Dry Port, marking a major milestone in trade and logistics cooperation between the two West African nations. The dry port, located in Kebbi State, Nigeria, is set to begin operations on October 31, 2024, and aims to enhance cargo movement, streamline customs processes, and promote regional economic integration.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State met with Benin Republic’s President Patrick Talon in Cotonou to fine-tune the operational details for the port’s launch. Talon was accompanied by his Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance. The meeting builds on previous discussions aimed at strengthening trade ties between the neighboring countries.
Governor Idris expressed optimism about the project, highlighting the strategic importance of the Tsamiya Dry Port in bolstering trade between Nigeria, Benin Republic, and even extending to Niger Republic. “The agreement between Nigeria and Benin will be highly beneficial to residents of towns and villages along the Sagbana-Tsamiya route,” Idris stated.
The groundwork for the dry port was laid earlier this year, with officials from both countries signing an agreement in May 2024 to establish the port and commence trade. This was followed by the commissioning of a trade office in Kano on August 28, 2024, by a joint team of customs officials from Nigeria and Benin Republic.
Depute Issa Salifou, a representative of the Benin Republic government, confirmed that the Tsamiya Dry Port would be operational by the end of October. He noted that the project would significantly boost legal trade activities along the Sagbana-Tsamiya route, which had previously been dominated by smuggling.
“This project signals the legalization of trade on the route, as it is the first legal dry port established in the area,” Salifou said, emphasizing the economic benefits for residents along the border regions, including improved livelihoods through increased trade.
The Tsamiya Dry Port is expected to serve as a key hub for regional trade, enhancing economic collaboration between Nigeria, Benin, and Niger Republic.
