3 hours ago
2 ARTICLE AD
The Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, Idiroko, Mohammed Shuaibu, has underscored the importance of seamless cross-border trade in driving sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.
Shuaibu made the call on Wednesday while speaking at the 4th Art for Economic Development Festival held in Idiroko, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.
According to a statement released by the customs boss, the theme of the festival, Cross-Border Trade: What It Is and Why It Matters,” highlights the crucial role of trade in fostering relationships, enhancing cultural exchanges, and promoting mutual understanding among diverse communities.
“Cross-border trade serves as a bridge that enhances economic growth, promotes cultural exchange, and fosters partnerships among nations. It enables businesses to reach broader markets, encourages innovation, and enhances the availability of goods and services for consumers everywhere,” he said.
Shuaibu urged participants to leverage the festival as an opportunity to strengthen ties and advocate for improved cross-border trade, noting that enhanced trade activities would contribute to vibrant communities and sustainable economic development.
The Executive Producer of the festival, Dr. Bonny Botoku described cross-border trade as the backbone of economies, connecting nations, unlocking potential, and creating opportunities for collaboration.
“Cross-border trade matters because it allows us to share resources, ideas, and innovations. It strengthens our economies by creating jobs, enhancing market access, and promoting sustainable development. Effective border practices are also essential for maintaining security and safety for all citizens,” Botoku stated.
He added that the festival was designed to harness the power of art and culture to drive economic growth and promote prosperity beyond borders.
Speaking at the event, an Assistant Comptroller of Customs, C. Amaweh, highlighted the benefits of cross-border trade, including job creation, revenue generation, economic diversification, and regional integration.
He, however, listed challenges such as informal trade, porous borders, policy disparities, language barriers, currency differences, and cultural divides as major hindrances to trade facilitation.
Amaweh stressed the need for policy harmonization, technological integration, and improved border security to curb revenue losses, illegal migration, and other trade-related challenges.
The festival featured various artistic performances reflecting the deep cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and the Benin Republic.
Participants also engaged in discussions on leveraging art as a tool for economic empowerment, while emphasising the need for policies that strengthen regional trade and investment.
The festival continues to serve as a strategic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovative solutions to trade-related issues.
