Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr Hamid Ali, says Nigerian borders will continue to remain closed until countries sharing border with Nigeria come into term with the conditions laid down by federal government. The Customs CG made this known when he visited Maigatari Nigeria/Niger Republic border on Wednesday, saying Nigeria could no longer fold its arms watching such countries flourishing at the detriment of Nigerian economy.

Ali, who arrived border town of Maigatari in a chopper, told journalists that countries sharing border with Nigeria had continued to encourage the importation of all forms of contraband that are known to such countries were inimical to the development of Nigeria.

He added that despite the measures in place the door for dialogue was still open in order to enter into new agreement capable of respecting Nigeria’s economic policies.

He explained that his visit was based on presidential directive, saying one of the reasons was to see for himself the progress made within the period the borders were closed.

The CG, who urged the personnel of the joint taskforce, to ensure total closure of the border against any act capable of compromising Nigeria’s interest, also said the visit was also to see to their welfare with a view to boost their moral for effective enforcement.

“Nigerian borders will remain closed until the countries sharing border with Nigeria come into term with conditions put in place for the economic policies of the country, in terms of what comes into the country.

“This is the first time in the history of this country of having a joint taskforce that includes the military, Customs, immigration and the police. “Federal Government came up with such formation in order to ensure absolute closure of all the borders,” he said.

Daily Trust