Ogun Customs boss urges Nigeria, Benin to boost trade through cultural diplomacy

From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta

The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, has called on cross-border traders in Nigeria and the Republic of Benin to promote sustainable economic activities through trade and cultural diplomacy.

Shuaibu made this call at the 4th edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development, held in Idiroko, with a strong focus on the theme “Cross-Border Trade: What It Is and Why It Matters.”

He emphasized that the event, which brought together key stakeholders from Nigeria and the Benin Republic, would foster economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation.

While highlighting the transformative power of cross-border trade in driving economic prosperity, the Customs boss noted that “trade not only enhances market expansion but also strengthens relationships between nations, fostering peace and mutual understanding.”

He, however, urged participants to leverage the festival as a platform for promoting sustainable economic activities through trade and cultural diplomacy.

In his keynote address, Bonny Abisogun Botoku, the Executive Producer of the Festival, underscored the indispensable role of customs and border management in facilitating trade while ensuring security.

He described cross-border trade as the lifeblood of regional economies, generating employment, increasing revenue, and enhancing market access for businesses.

Botoku, therefore, commended Comptroller Shuaibu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening trade facilitation and economic development through the arts.

In his presentation at the event, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Clement Amaweh, who provided insights into the history, benefits, and challenges of cross-border trade, stressed the need for policy harmonization, technological integration, and improved border security to address the persistent challenges of informal trade, revenue loss, and illegal migration.

Meanwhile, the festival showcased an array of artistic expressions that reflected the vibrant cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and the Benin Republic.

Participants also engaged in discussions on how art can serve as a tool for economic empowerment, while also reinforcing the need for policies that enhance regional trade and investment opportunities.

Stakeholders from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin further reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic integration, promoting legal trade practices, and leveraging art as a vehicle for sustainable development.

The festival was graced by notable dignitaries, including Johnson Akohomeh Avoseh, Chairman of Ipokia Local Government Area, Mrs Maroufatou Falola, Deputy Mayor of Ifonyin Municipality in the Republic of Benin, and traditional rulers.

Other dignitaries at the event were principal officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, representatives from sister security agencies, senior government officials, and participants from secondary schools and tertiary institutions, among others.